Crews monitor Alex Fraser, Port Mann bridges for ice bombs
Posted February 4, 2020 8:56 am.
Last Updated February 4, 2020 8:59 am.
SURREY (NEWS 1130) – Technicians are at the ready in case ice bombs reappear on the Alex Fraser or Port Mann bridges during a day of heavy snowfall in the Lower Mainland.
The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure says contractors have crews available 24 hours a day, seven days a week in the event of an emergency.
The province’s technicians are closely monitoring the situation on the crossings as well as the forecast, adding crews are “reviewing doppler radar sites to monitor the potential for snow build up on the cables.”
Ice bombs have been a big problem on both bridges in the past. Just last month, a number of drivers reported ice falling from cables onto their vehicles, shattering windshields in some cases.
FILE – A windshield after it was hit by an ice bomb on the Port Mann Bridge in January. (Submitted)
“Rope access technicians, as well as traffic control in case of potential lane closures, have mobilized and were on-site at both bridges before the morning peak travel period,” the ministry said on Tuesday.
Commuters are reminded to drive for conditions and to have the appropriate tires on their vehicles. Everyone is asked to give themselves extra time getting around as snowfall continues, and to expect possible delays.
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-With files from Kurtis Doering
