Westham Island Bridge reopens to vehicles following critical repairs

Restoring a vital lifeline under demanding conditions

Successful completion of urgent repair work to a key historic wooden road bridge in Delta, British Columbia has restored a vital connection to the Westham Island farming and residential community.

The Westham Island Bridge, which provides the only land access to the area, was damaged by a barge strike causing structural damage and cutting off access for residents, the local agricultural industry, and emergency services.

Image credit: TransLink

Image credit: TransLink

Image credit: TransLink

Mott MacDonald served as prime consultant, providing engineer of record and field services for the replacement of the damaged structural component, the in-river Pier P5 bent. Working closely with regional transportation authority TransLink, contractors (primarily Mainroad and VanPile), and partner agencies, our team navigated complex technical, environmental, and tidal conditions to deliver the repairs safely and efficiently. Completed in approximately two months, the project reflects the entire team’s dedication, professionalism, and strong collaboration, united by a shared commitment to reopening the bridge as quickly as possible.

“This was a demanding project delivered under significant time and environmental constraints,” says Arman Shahnaz, principal engineer, bridges, at Mott MacDonald. “The team remained focused on safety, technical excellence, and the needs of the community throughout.”

The reopening of the bridge brought out community members carrying “Thank you” signs for restoring vital agricultural and economic activity.

“What this work actually enabled was to reconnect a community to school, work, appointments, friends, and family,” comments Sabrina Lau Texier, director, infrastructure programs at TransLink. “It helped ensure that an essential pillar of Metro Vancouver's food security was saved for another growing season. We are deeply grateful to every single person who has problem-solved alongside us.”