B.C. islanders face weeks without vehicle bridge after tug strike

A tugboat struck the 113-year-old bridge to Westham Island on Jan. 20, leaving it unsafe for vehicles and prompting temporary crossings and services while TransLink says repairs will take several weeks.

Residents of Westham Island are coping after the island's only vehicle bridge was struck by a tugboat on Jan. 20. Officials say the 113-year-old wood-deck, single-lane truss bridge was shifted out of alignment and is unsafe for vehicle traffic. A leak was found in a water main under the bridge and a boil-water advisory was issued for the community. TransLink and local officials have arranged temporary crossings and support while an investigation and repairs proceed. Known details: - The tug Quadrant Partner struck the bridge on Jan. 20, and the Transportation Safety Board is investigating the collision. - TransLink reported that a primary support structure was severely impacted, the bridge is askew, and vehicle traffic is restricted for safety reasons. - A leak in the water main beneath the bridge led to a boil-water advisory affecting about 130 households on the island. - Temporary measures include barge crossings, shuttle buses, parcel pickup arrangements and coordination with the City of Delta to support residents and farm transport. Summary: The strike has cut the island's main vehicle lifeline and is disrupting daily life and farming operations. TransLink says repairs will take several weeks and the Transportation Safety Board investigation is ongoing. Undetermined at this time when the bridge will be fully restored for vehicle use.