Work has begun on an extension of the South Fraser Perimeter Road (Highway 17) to connect it directly to the Golden Ears Bridge.
The $20-million two-kilometre "Golden Ears Connector" will provide more direct access, avoiding the need for vehicles to use Highway 1 or municipal roads in Surrey.
It's expected to be particularly useful for trucks as well as other motorists driving between Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows and destinations to the southwest along the new highway, such as port terminals, Tsawwassen ferry terminal and Vancouver International Airport.
Preload for the new connector was already placed last year and the final stage of work now underway will complete the new roadway and add a multi-use path from 176 Street to 104 Avenue, on-road cycling shoulders and environmental enhancements.
The Golden Ears Connector is expected to open in late 2016.