Highway 99 delays at George Massey Tunnel due to powerline problem

Bad timing for commuters this afternoon after an emergency forced the closure of a lane on Highway 99 through the George Massey Tunnel while hundreds of motorists were in the midst of their evening commute.

“An issue with the BC Hydro transmission line within the George Massey Tunnel requires an immediate repair to ensure the safety of the travelling public,” the Ministry of Transportation wrote on its website Wednesday afternoon.

A curb lane southbound was closed while BC Hydro completed its work. This means only two lanes were open southbound during the rush-hour commute.

In an update, the Ministry said the southbound right lane in the tunnel has reopened.

“All [southbound] counterflow lanes will remain in service through the Massey Tunnel for an extra hour to reduce southbound traffic delays, until the SB delays are eliminated,” the Ministry said in a social media post around 6:10 pm. 

Drivers can expect longer delays or are urged to consider an alternative route.

For updates, head to Drive BC’s website.

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