$56 million in contracts awarded for B.C. tunnel replacement

RICHMOND, B.C.—More than $56 million in contracts has been awarded to replace the George Massey Tunnel in B.C.

The province announced it signed nine contracts for technical and engineering expertise to support the Highway 99 Tunnel Program to replace the Massey Tunnel. The project aims to address congestion along the corridor between Richmond and Delta.

“We are moving ahead with a new toll-free tunnel to replace the George Massey Tunnel, and these contracts will support the ministry’s work as we move from development to construction,” said Rob Fleming, minister of transportation and infrastructure, in a statement. “The new tunnel, along with a new Steveston Interchange and Highway 99 improvements, are being designed to improve safety, reliability and connectivity while aligning with regional interests.”

The contracts have a combined value of $56.7 million and were awarded thorough B.C.’s procurement process.

Here is a list of the winners:

Owner’s Engineering Service (Immersed Tube Tunnel):
COWI North America Ltd.
Value: $15 million

Owner’s Engineering Service (Highway and Civil Works):
R.F. Binnie and Associates Ltd.
Value: $15 million

Archeological Services:
Golder Associates
Value: $2.1 million

Environmental Services:
Golder Associates
Value: $14.77 million

Independent Environmental Monitor for the Corridor Improvement Projects:
Sartori Environmental Inc.
Value: $725,000

Marine Navigation Advisor:
TyPlan Consulting
Value: $322,000

Communication and Engagement Services (Highway 99 Tunnel Project/Steveston Interchange Project):
Lucent Quay Consulting Inc.
Value: $4.18 million

Hydrotechnical and River Hydraulics Services:
Northwest Hydraulic Consultants Ltd.
Value $4.4 million

Marine Construction Advisor:
RAM Engineering Ltd.
Value: $202,000

Officials say the next step in the Fraser River Tunnel Project is to start the environmental assessment process. This includes ongoing engagement with Indigenous groups and stakeholders and preparation for procurement. B.C. estimates the whole project will cost around $4.15 billion and is scheduled to be completed in 2030.

Before the tunnel is in place, crews will implement improvements to transit and cycling infrastructure along Highway 99. Construction of the new Steveston Interchange is scheduled to begin this year.

Transportation Investment Corporation is leading the delivery of the major elements (eight-lane tunnel and Steveston Interchange) of the Highway 99 Tunnel Program on behalf of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, and will provide the controls, practices and other oversights essential for the complex project.