VICTORIA — A string of fatalities on the Patullo Bridge is prompting NDP MLA Raj Chouhan to raise questions about the Campbell government's plans for the Gateway Program, which include the treacherous crossing.

This past week, a 34-year-old Burnaby resident died in yet another serious accident on the Patullo, the fifth death on the bridge deck this year. This tragic accident also marks the 15 fatality on the bridge in the past five years.

Translink has committed to build a centre lane divider on the bridge to help protect motorists, but progress on the project is slow. And as more commuters are expected to choose the Patullo to avoid paying commuter tolls on the Port Mann, safety of B.C. motorists is an increasing concern.

"The Transportation Minister has put British Columbians on notice that they can expect tolls on the Port Mann twinning once it is completed," said Chouhan. "And B.C. motorists looking for a free alternative are going to rely on the Patullo. But improvements to the Bridge are lagging, congestion is growing, and it will continue to grow as those tolls take effect. What will the Minister do to ensure the safety of B.C. motorists on this crossing?"

Chouhan, the MLA for Burnaby-Edmonds, added that the Patullo -- with its narrow lanes, heavy congestion, and history of serious, often fatal accidents -- is not considered safe by motorists in the region. Chouhan added that as more traffic heads to the Bridge, he fears we will see more critical accidents and fatalities.

"British Columbians deserve to feel safe when they travel the province's roads," Chouhan said. "And the Campbell government must work to meet the safety concerns of motorists who rely on the Patullo crossing."

"It is my hope that Minister Falcon will address these safety concerns with the same energy as he spends promoting the Gateway Program," Chouhan concluded.

Raj Chouhan

Burnaby-Edmonds

Raj Chouhan was elected as the MLA for Burnaby-Edmonds on May 12, 2005 and was re-elected on May 12, 2009.