The construction gantry was being used to install precast deck sections on the north approach of the new Port Mann Bridge when it experienced a malfunction. It is now leaning south, toward the cable-stay section of the bridge.
Before the accident: gantry in action at Port Mann Bridge.
The area of the river had been closed to boats and marine users at the time of the incident because there was work happening above.
Immediately following the incident, the contractor cleared and secured the affected location and notified the appropriate local officials and authorities. There were no injuries. The site and the gantry are secure, said British Columbia’s Transportation Investment Corporation and the Ministry of Transportation & Infrastructure.
The Port Mann/Highway 1 Improvement Project contractor Kiewit/Flatiron is undertaking an investigation to determine precisely how the malfunction occurred. This investigation will also determine if the malfunction will have any impact on the construction schedule for the new Port Mann Bridge.
