Second Narrows Bridge - Chronology of The Original Bridge

Chronology of The Original Bridge

• 1902 V. W. and Y Railway completed to Burnaby. Bridge Planned.
• 1910 Burrard Inlet Bridge and Tunnel Company plans floated.
• 1912 Land speculation on North Shore, subject to completion of bridge.
• 1914 Railway to Deep Cove and Port Moody planned.
• 1915 Market Collapse; P. G. E Railway bankrupt.
• 1916 Causeway planned; Canadian Northern bankrupt.
• 1925: A smaller, lower bridge is completed, than originally envisioned.
• 1926: Trains began using the bridge.
• 1927: A 10,000 ton freighter, the Eurana hit it on March 10 causing almost $80,000 worth of damage.
• 1928: Hit by the SS Norwich City.
• 1930: The Losmar hits the south span.
• 1930: On September 13, the barge Pacific Gatherer becomes wedged under the bridge’s fixed centre span. The tide rose pushing the barge up under the span, knocking it off its supports. The span hung off one side before suddenly breaking free and sinking into the depths of Burrard Inlet. Lawsuits and the bankruptcy of the Bridge company delayed any attempt at repairs. The bridge remained closed for four years.
• 1933: Sold to the Provincial government. Repairs began.
• 1934: Reopened, replacing the bascule with a centre lift span.
• 1963: Closed to highway traffic and sold to the CNR for $1.
• 1968 New, larger lift bridge is built immediately to the east of the 1926 Bridge.
• 1969: Tunnel is dug for CN trains to connect with line at Willingdon.
• 1970 Old bridge is removed, as are cement piers.