Barge crashes into Arthur Laing Bridge, causing traffic disruptions

Richmond RCMP were kept busy Friday morning after a barge crashed into the Arthur Laing Bridge.

Mounties are investigating after a barge struck the Arthur Laing Bridge shortly after midnight Friday, forcing temporary closures while crews checked the structure for damage.

Richmond RCMP said officers received the call at about 12:38 a.m.

All northbound and southbound traffic was initially blocked as crews conducted a structural examination of the bridge.

Drivers were urged to plan alternate routes during the closure.

Authorities said northbound lanes have since fully reopened, while southbound traffic has been reduced to a single lane for a portion near the bridge’s midspan.

RCMP have not yet said what caused the crash or provided details on the extent of any damage.

According to the Vancouver Airport Authority, an assessment of the damage was completed and crews remained onsite Friday afternoon to repair the bridge’s railing.

“Some additional concrete work will be required over the coming weeks but in the meantime, we are working towards being able to reopen the second southbound lane,” the airport authority said on its website.

YVR added that anyone needing to get to the airport should consider taking the Canada Line or alternate routes.