New Alex Fraser lanes save time, cut emissions, but morning rush still slow: truck drivers

DELTA (NEWS 1130) — You may have noticed some changes on your daily commute thanks to a new lane on the Alex Fraser Bridge — and truck drivers are noticing too.

The President of the BC Trucking Association says the biggest difference is during the afternoon rush, especially on Annacis Island, where delays could hit about 30 to 40 minutes just to get on or off the bridge.

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Dave Earle says the new lane is only one piece to the puzzle because the conversation on congestion is far from over and the morning rush is still terrible.

“Once we see that northbound counterflow coming day and night, we’re really looking forward to improved traffic flows,” he says.

Earle adds the time saved is better for the environment.

“The very first thing people should think about is the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions,” he says. “These vehicles aren’t sitting there idling, not moving, for half-an-hour at a time.”

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He also suggests consumers might save money if other costs come down.

The province has admitted the counterflow system is behind schedule, but should be up and running sometime this year.

Meantime, Earle adds says we can’t lose focus on the Massey Tunnel.

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