Port Mann Bridge Will Be World’s Widest

The Port Mann Bridge is nearing completion and amongst talk of tolls and travel times comes a distinct recognition — an entry into the Guinness Book of World Records. At 65 metres from side to side, officials confirm that it will be the world’s widest bridge.

The Sydney Harbour Bridge at 49 meters wide is currently the widest in the world. Here are a few more facts about the new Port Mann Bridge:

• Total length: 2,020 metres
• Number of lanes: 10 (5 in each direction)
• Number of cables: 288
• Total width: 65 metres
  50 metres of roadway (including shoulders)
  5 metre wide path, with 3 metres of clearance for pedestrians and cyclists
  10 metre gap/median where pylons support the two bridge decks 
• Tower height: 160 metres, including 42 metres of navigational clearance

Photo credit: Port Mann Hwy 1, Port Mann Hwy 1 on Flickr

Tolls will start at $1.50 per crossing and those who sign up before November 30, 2012 will receive a $30 credit on their account. HOV (High Occupancy Vehicle) lane users will also get a 25% discount during peak hours throughout the first year and drivers can sign up for a monthly pass starting at $75. [Source: Vancouver Sun]

Tolling registration can be done online, via a link on the Port Mann Highway 1 Improvement Project website and the bridge will be free for the first month when it opens this December. Follow @PortMannHwy1 on Twitter for daily updates.

The world’s tallest bridge is the Millau Viaduct (1,125 ft) in France; the world’s longest is the Danyang–Kunshan Grand Bridge (540,700 ft) in China; the world’s highest bridge is the Sidu River Bridge in China (1,627 ft).

Related posts: Port Mann Bridge Photos, Port Mann Bridge Time Lapse Videos.