Nine contracts have been awarded for technical and engineering expertise to support the Province’s delivery of the Highway 99 Tunnel Program to replace the Massey Tunnel, which will improve mobility along the corridor between Richmond and Delta.  

A new toll-free tunnel will replace the George Massey Tunnel, and these contracts will support the ministry’s work from development to construction of the project. 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 following contracts with a total value of EUR 39.07 million (CAD 56.7 million) were awarded following the Province of British Columbia’s thorough procurement process:  

• Owner's Engineering Service (Immersed Tube Tunnel), COWI North America Ltd, value EUR10.34 million (CAD15 million); 
• Owner's Engineering Service (Highway and Civil Works): R.F. Binnie and Associates Ltd, value EUR10.34 million (CAD15 million); 
• Archaeological Services: Golder Associates, value EUR1.45 million (CAD2.1 million); 
• Environmental Services: Golder Associates, value EUR10.18 million (CAD14.77 million); 
• Independent Environmental Monitor for the Corridor Improvement Projects: Sartori Environmental Inc, value EUR499,676 (CAD725,000); 
• Marine Navigation Advisor: TyPlan Consulting, value EUR221,919 (CAD322,000); 
• Communication and Engagement Services (Highway 99 Tunnel Project/Steveston Interchange Project): Lucent Quay Consulting Inc, value EUR2.89 million (CAD4.19 million); 
• Hydrotechnical and River Hydraulics Services: Northwest Hydraulic Consultants Ltd, value EUR3.03 million (CAD4.40 million); 
• Marine Construction Advisor: RAM Engineering Ltd, value EUR139,210 (CAD202,000);  

The Highway 99 Tunnel Program will result in travel-time savings in the region for vehicles, including buses, as well as providing new opportunities for people who cycle or walk.   

The next step in the Fraser River Tunnel Project is to initiate the environmental assessment process. This includes ongoing engagement with Indigenous groups and stakeholders and preparation for procurement. The new tunnel is estimated to cost EUR 2.86 bn (CAD4.15 bn) and is scheduled to be complete in 2030.  

In the interim, improvements to transit and cycling infrastructure along Highway 99 are underway. 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 this complex project. Click here for the tunnelbuilder archive and visit https://news.gov.bc.ca/. 06/22.