Surrey/New Westminster – With the bridge deck connected and final paving underway, the new crossing that will replace the Pattullo Bridge has received its name from Kwantlen First Nation and Musqueam Indian Band: stal̕əw̓asəm Bridge.
NOTE: The name Stal̕əw̓asəm is pronounced STALL-oh-ah-sum. This name, which translates to “place to view the river” or “riverview,” is in the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ language (part of the Halkomelem language family)
Traffic will be switched onto the stal̕əw̓asəm Bridge from the old Pattullo Bridge in phases to allow for completion of the tie-ins to the roadways on either side. On opening day, a single lane of northbound traffic will exit to eastbound East Columbia via the new off ramp.
stal̕əw̓asəm can be understood as“a space where you can view the river”. The English name is Riverview. The name recognizes First Nations’ historical and current connections to the area. Former Musqueam Indian Reserve No. 1 and Kwantlen Indian Reserve No. 8 were in qiqéyt, an important village site near the base of the bridge in Surrey. For information on pronunciation, visit: https://www.pattullobridgereplacement.ca/bridge-name/
“stal̕əw̓asəm Bridge is more than just a name. It acknowledges the history of these lands, and represents the preservation of culture and language,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Transportation and Transit. “This new bridge is going to transform the region’s transportation network, support people and businesses in the region, and strengthen B.C.’s economy for generations.”
This also marks a major milestone as traffic will begin shifting to the stal̕əw̓asəm Bridge from the Pattullo Bridge in phases over the coming weeks as final works wrap. The new bridge includes four wider lanes with a centre median, and barrier-separated walking and cycling lanes. This means people, vehicles and transport trucks can travel between New Westminster and Surrey faster and more safely. Road signage will include both the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ name and English translation.
“A traditional name is not bestowed lightly and carries reminders and responsibilities,” said Chief Marilyn Gabriel, Kwantlen First Nation. “With the new name, we honour our past, present and future, and the importance of this area to both Kwantlen and Musqueam. We also reflect on our long-standing connections to sacred lands and resources on both sides of the bridge crossing and stal̕əw̓ (Fraser River). The name reminds us that with many connections shared in this area, we all are responsible to honour and uphold its well-being and generosity it has provided for countless generations.”
Pattullo Bridge Replacement First Nations Cultural Recognition Program, including bridge name pronunciation guides: https://www.pattullobridgereplacement.ca/bridge-name/
Pattullo Bridge Replacement Project traffic-shift phasing information: https://www.pattullobridgereplacement.ca/construction/bridge-opening/
Pattullo Bridge Replacement Project, including existing bridge demolition information: https://www.pattullobridgereplacement.ca/
For the most up-to-date highway travel information, visit: www.DriveBC.ca Or @DriveBC on Twitter.
