Thousands of afternoon rush-hour commuters were caught by surprise Monday with a change to a freeway on-ramp and signal at United Boulevard and the Mary Hill Bypass.
The change was implemented to make way for construction work on the Port Mann/Highway 1 project but many drivers failed to notice the new on-ramp and signal to Highway 1 westbound and had to improvise a left-hand turn through traffic on United Boulevard to get to the freeway.
The result was a lengthy back-up of traffic along United Boulevard in both directions that lasted well into the evening - and generated many complaints.
"We recognize there were certainly some delays and confusion," said Max Logan, director of communication for the Transportation Investment Corp., responsible for the project. Logan said signs were changed Tuesday to let drivers know they had to keep to the right along the Mary Hill bypass in order to get onto the freeway on-ramp.
New signs were also in place Tuesday to prevent drivers from making a left-hand turn onto the freeway on-ramp from United Boulevard and traffic monitors were in the area to make sure traffic was running smoothly.
There is no change for eastbound Mary Hill Bypass traffic or for westbound motorists making a left on to United Boulevard.
Drivers are urged to watch for road signs and electronic message boards, and are reminded to stick to posted speed limits. They should also be aware that traffic fines double in construction zones. Drivers wishing to get project updates are invited to contact [email protected] or by visit www.pmh1project.com.
