Old Pattullo Bridge arches coming down this Thanksgiving weekend in risky river operation
Four large hydraulic jacks will lower the 89-year-old steel arch onto barges between Friday evening and Sunday; the Fraser River's main shipping channel closes for 48 to 60 hours.
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Crews will begin lowering the Old Pattullo Bridge's iconic steel arch onto barges in the Fraser River starting Friday evening, October 9, with the operation expected to take 48 to 60 hours and conclude by Sunday evening, October 11.
The method uses four large strand jacks—specialized hydraulic winching systems—to carefully lower the steel arch components onto waiting barges on the river. Preparation work over the past months included removing concrete components and installing temporary bracing and beams. After the arches are lowered, crews will remove the steel strands and tugboats will move the barges to a temporary trestle, where the steel will be transported for further dismantling and recycling.
The Fraser River's main navigation channel will be closed from evening October 9 to evening October 11. The operation's timing depends on weather and tidal conditions, so adjustments are possible.
The Old Pattullo Bridge, completed in 1937 during the Great Depression, has served the region for nearly 90 years. Vehicle traffic was shifted to the new stal̕əw̓asəm/Riverview Bridge before demolition of the old crossing began in February 2026. Land-based sections have been demolished in Surrey and New Westminster. A shared pedestrian and cycling pathway on the west side of the new bridge is expected to open later this fall. The overall demolition is expected to conclude by late 2027, with the final stage involving removal of in-river piers and foundations.
The facts
When will the Old Pattullo Bridge arch be lowered onto barges?
Crews will begin lowering the arch on Friday evening, October 9, 2026, with the operation expected to conclude by Sunday evening, October 11, 2026, taking 48 to 60 hours total.
How will the arch be lowered?
Four large strand jacks—specialized hydraulic winching systems—will carefully lower the steel arch components onto waiting barges on the Fraser River.
What happens to the Fraser River during this operation?
The Fraser River's main navigation channel will close from evening October 9 to evening October 11, 2026.
When was the Old Pattullo Bridge completed?
The Old Pattullo Bridge was completed in 1937 during the Great Depression.
