George Massey Tunnel transmission relocation project

The Government of B.C. is proposing to replace the existing four-lane George Massey Tunnel with a new, eight-lane immersed tube tunnel, and will decommission the existing tunnel once the new tunnel is in operation.

We operate a 12-kilometre, 230-kilovolt power line from Arnott Substation in Delta to Steveston Substation in Richmond, serving approximately 30,000 customers. Approximately 700 metres of this line is underground in the existing George Massey Tunnel. With the tunnel planned for decommissioning, we need to relocate this section of the power line across the Fraser River.

The section of power line currently located within the existing George Massey Tunnel will be rebuilt within the Province's proposed immersed tube tunnel (ITT).

This will include a combination of overhead and underground project components, which are currently being designed.

We'll continue to coordinate with the Province to advance the design of this project. As both projects move forward, the project team will complete site-specific geotechnical investigations and environmental studies, secure the necessary permits and approvals, initiate procurement for key materials, and continue consulting with First Nations and engaging stakeholders.

George Massey Tunnel Transmission Relocation Project

View the project map [PDF, 1.8 MB] at a larger size.
 

Select the project timeline [PDF, 1.2 MB] at a larger size.
 

This stage of the project will focus on coordinating with the Province to design the new power line segment within the proposed tunnel.

Over the next two and a half years, we'll undertake engineering and environmental studies that will help inform design. We'll also secure the necessary permits and approvals in advance of construction.

The work to relocate this segment of the existing power line is closely tied to the Province's Fraser River Tunnel Project schedule.

Because this work will take place in the same area, close coordination of timelines and activities will be necessary to safely and efficiently advance both projects.

We'll continue to work with the Province to refine the schedule and will provide updates as when there is new information to share.

We'll continue to keep you updated as the project progresses.

If you have further questions or comments, or if you're part of a community group and would like us to provide you with a high-level overview of the project, please send an email to the project team.