Construction underway on CN overpass in British Columbia

Public and private partners on Friday announced construction is underway on the Philip Avenue overpass in North Vancouver, British Columbia.

The more than $30 million project involves the Canadian government, province of British Columbia, District of North Vancouver, CN and Kinder Morgan Canada Terminals-Vancouver Wharves.

Located in the North Shore Trade Area (NSTA), the overpass will decrease traffic congestion and improve safety by eliminating a grade crossing, project partners said in a press release. The project will enable longer trains to move through the area and reduce rail-car switching noise, shunting and whistles, they said.

The overpass will cross CN tracks at Philip Avenue and include two ramps. Construction is scheduled for completion in fall 2015.

The overpass is one of several transportation projects that will help meet the future demands of the NSTA, which includes port terminals and industries along the north shore of Burrard Inlet. The NSTA handles more than 35 percent of all volume through Port Metro Vancouver and is a critical export gateway to overseas markets, project partners said.

"[We're] pleased to be a part of the Philip Avenue Overpass Project, in combination with other transportation and infrastructure investments on the North Shore, all of which contribute to the growth of the North Shore Trade Area and to the economic development of Canada," said Michael Cory, senior vice president of CN's Western Region.

The Canadian government is providing $13.4 million for the overpass, with the province contributing $10 million; CN, $4.2 million; Kinder Morgan, $2.1 million; and the District of North Vancouver, $400,000.