This is Vancouver How will people remember the old Pattullo Bridge?
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Feb 17, 2026 Alexa Liptak, who grew up crossing the Pattullo Bridge, shares personal memories and its cultural meaning. Justin Smith, a Fraser River steward training for a 1,000 km walk, recounts his farewell walk and observations. They discuss the bridge’s final public walk, mixed feelings about its safety versus iconic status, and what the new Stalewasem Bridge offers.
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Safety Drove The Closure Decision
- Engineers concluded the Pattullo Bridge no longer met modern seismic and wind-safety standards after almost 90 years.
- The structure reached the end of its usable life prompting replacement rather than continued repair.
Community Farewell On The Old Bridge
- Thousands of people walked the Pattullo Bridge one last time during a public farewell weekend.
- Visitors described mixed feelings of pride and relief at seeing the aging structure for the final time.
Drivers’ Unease And Last-Minute Visits
- People who used the bridge recounted driving fears like narrow lanes, visible holes and rust.
- Some traveled from other cities just to walk it before demolition and take keepsake photos.