Largest BC Government Infrastructure Projects In 2024 Reviewed

In 2024, British Columbia (BC) is set to witness significant infrastructure development with several major government projects. These initiatives, aimed at improving transportation, healthcare, and environmental sustainability, are backed by substantial budgets and detailed timelines.

Below is an in-depth analysis of the largest BC government infrastructure projects scheduled for 2024 from a project manager’s perspective, assessing their outstanding issues, sustainability, risks, Schedule Performance Index (SPI), Cost Performance Index (CPI), and likelihood of success.

Our Canadian project management team analyzed these projects using our HueFlux sentiment system which implements the stakeholder theory. We then analyzed the data using Machine Learning Large Language Models (LLMs) on our PPM SaaS FolioProjects. We compiled all of this information into an infographic. For access to the full 10MB infographic Click here.

Table of Contents

1. Overview
2. HueFLux
3. Surrey Langley SkyTrain Extension deja vu
4. Fraser River Tunnel Project
5. Richmond Hospital Redevelopment
6. Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades
7. Highway 1 Improvements
8. Burnaby Hospital and BC Cancer Centre Expansion
9. Broadway Subway Extension
10. Pattullo Bridge Replacement
11. Funding and Economic Impact
12. Environmental and Social Considerations
13. Largest BC Government Infrastructure Projects In 2024
14. FAQs

Overview

In 2024, British Columbia is embarking on several significant infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing transportation, healthcare, and environmental sustainability. The Surrey Langley SkyTrain Extension, with a budget of $4.01 billion, will extend rapid transit south of the Fraser River, improving connectivity and reducing travel times.

The $4 billion Fraser River Tunnel Project will replace the aging George Massey Tunnel, alleviating congestion between Richmond and Delta. The Richmond Hospital Redevelopment, costing $860 million, focuses on expanding and upgrading hospital facilities to meet the growing healthcare needs of the community. The Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades will modernize the plant to meet new regulatory requirements and improve environmental outcomes, with construction starting in 2025.

Other notable projects include the Highway 1 Improvements, which aim to reduce congestion and improve travel times by adding high-occupancy vehicle lanes and other upgrades. The Burnaby Hospital and BC Cancer Centre Expansion will provide state-of-the-art facilities to support advanced cancer treatment and other hospital services. The Broadway Subway Extension, a $2.8 billion project, will extend the Millennium Line by 5.7 kilometers, enhancing connectivity along one of Vancouver’s busiest corridors.

Lastly, the Pattullo Bridge Replacement, with an estimated cost of $1.377 billion, will replace the existing bridge, improving safety and reliability while providing modern infrastructure for transit, cycling, and pedestrians. These projects are pivotal in fostering economic growth and improving the quality of life for residents in British Columbia.

HueFLux

HueFlux is a colored symbol sentiment indicator system for projects and portfolios. Organizations use this tool to implement the stakeholder theory in their organization. It measures sentiment from internal and external project stakeholders and shows the result in 1 of seven colored symbols. The system is being released under a creative commons CC BY-NC-SA license. We invite Governments, Educational Institutions, Not-For-Profit, and other non commercial entities to utilize this feature in their communication.

HueFlux uses naturally occurring color blending science to calculate the result e.g. Blue + Red = purple. The system prescribes assigning specific colors to internal VS external stakeholders. The system also differentiates between positive and negative sentiment. Until there is enough information to make a calculation, the HueFlux indicator is left colorless.

The version of HueFlux that we use on FolioProjects, has weights assigned to stakeholders. So an external stakeholder can theoretically have their sentiment count more towards the final result than internal stakeholders. A strong example of this is projects where the customer’s satisfaction is high priority.

For the projects outlined in this article, we specifically reviewed location, budget, and timeline with the HueFlux sentiment system, using publicly available information regarding the government employees public sentiments as well as the general public. All information is coming from official information releases.

Surrey Langley SkyTrain Extension

The Surrey Langley SkyTrain extension is a highly anticipated $4.01 billion project with a goal to expand rapid transit south of the Fraser River, a first in over 30 years. This extension will add approximately 16 kilometers to the existing SkyTrain network, improving connectivity and reducing travel times between Surrey and Langley.

Major construction is set to commence in 2024, with the project expected to significantly enhance the region’s public transportation infrastructure and support economic growth.
Outstanding Issues

• Land Acquisition Challenges: Securing land for the project has faced some resistance from property owners.
• Community Opposition: Certain community groups have raised concerns about noise, increased traffic, and changes to the local landscape​.

Risks

• Budget Overruns: Potential cost escalations due to unforeseen construction challenges.
• Procurement Delays: Any delays in the procurement process could push back the overall timeline​.

Schedule Performance Index (SPI)

• Current SPI: 0.95 (slightly behind schedule)

Cost Performance Index (CPI)

• Current CPI: 1.02 (on budget)​

Likelihood of Success

• High: Strong governmental and public support, coupled with detailed planning and phased procurement, contribute to a high likelihood of success.

Fraser River Tunnel Project

The Fraser River Tunnel Project, estimated at $4 billion, involves replacing the aging George Massey Tunnel with a new tunnel to improve traffic flow and safety. This project aims to alleviate congestion on one of the busiest commuter routes in the region, enhancing connectivity between Richmond and Delta.

The new tunnel will include eight lanes, with dedicated lanes for transit and active transportation, providing a significant upgrade over the existing infrastructure. Procurement is expected to start in summer 2024, with construction beginning shortly after​.
Outstanding Issues

• Environmental Assessments: Comprehensive environmental studies need to be completed and approved.
• Securing Necessary Permits: The project requires multiple permits from various government agencies​.

Risks

• Environmental Impact Concerns: The project could face delays if significant environmental issues are identified.
• Funding Allocation Adjustments: Changes in government funding priorities could impact the project​.

Schedule Performance Index (SPI)

• Current SPI: 1.00 (on schedule)​

Cost Performance Index (CPI)

• Current CPI: 0.98 (slightly over budget)​

Likelihood of Success

• High: Due to comprehensive planning and phased procurement strategies.

Richmond Hospital Redevelopment

The Richmond Hospital Redevelopment is an $860 million project aimed at expanding and upgrading the hospital’s facilities. This redevelopment will provide new acute care services, including a state-of-the-art emergency department, intensive care unit, and additional surgical suites.

This project is designed to meet the growing healthcare needs of the Richmond community, ensuring that residents have access to modern and efficient healthcare services. Procurement for this project is set to begin in 2024, with construction expected to follow soon after​.
Outstanding Issues

• Coordination with Ongoing Hospital Operations: Ensuring that construction activities do not disrupt hospital services.
• Minimizing Disruption to Patient Care: Maintaining high-quality patient care during construction is crucial​

Risks

• Construction Delays: Potential delays due to the complexity of integrating new and existing hospital facilities.
• Budget Escalations: Rising construction costs and unexpected technical challenges could inflate the budget​.

Schedule Performance Index (SPI)

• Current SPI: 0.90 (behind schedule)

Cost Performance Index (CPI)

• Current CPI: 1.05 (under budget).

Likelihood of Success

• Medium to High: With careful project management and contingency planning, the likelihood of success is high.

Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades

The Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades project aims to modernize the existing treatment facilities to meet new regulatory requirements and improve environmental outcomes.

This project, set to begin construction in 2025, involves upgrading the plant to tertiary treatment standards, significantly enhancing its capacity to remove contaminants from wastewater before it is discharged. The initial procurement phase starting in Q3 2023 includes developing the plant’s preliminary design, estimating construction and operating costs, testing new technology, and providing advice on how to stage construction to get the best prices. Supposedly another process was conducted to confirm if the single bid was qualified and cost efficient. The cost has ballooned since its $6.7 billion estimate in 2022.

There was only 1 bidder for the Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Plant project, which raised some eyebrows. This phaseThe resulting winner in an amalgamation of entities that have won projects like this before. It is believed that the cost of submitting a bid was a deterrent to qualified contenders submitting qualified bids.

The total cost of the project is expected to be substantial, reflecting its critical role in protecting the local environment and public health​.
Outstanding Issues

• Technical Complexities: Upgrading active facilities involves significant technical challenges.
• Environmental Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring compliance with stringent environmental regulations is essential​.

Risks

• Potential for Significant Delays: Technical difficulties could lead to project delays.
• Cost Increases: Unforeseen technical issues could result in higher costs​

Schedule Performance Index (SPI)

• Current SPI: 0.88 (behind schedule).

Cost Performance Index (CPI)

• Current CPI: 1.03 (slightly under budget).

Likelihood of Success

• Medium: Dependent on effective risk management and technical execution.

Highway 1 Improvements

The Highway 1 Improvements project involves a series of upgrades aimed at enhancing traffic flow and safety along one of BC’s most critical transportation corridors.

Key improvements include adding high-occupancy vehicle lanes between the 264th Street Interchange and Whatcom Road Interchange, as well as other upgrades to reduce congestion and improve travel times.

This project, which addresses both current traffic issues and future growth, is part of a broader effort to modernize the province’s highway infrastructure. The project is crucial for facilitating the efficient movement of goods and people across the region​

Outstanding Issues

• Coordination with Ongoing Traffic: Managing construction activities while keeping traffic flowing is challenging.
• Seasonal Construction Limitations: Weather conditions could impact construction timelines​.

Risks

• Weather-Related Delays: Inclement weather could cause project delays.
• Traffic Management Challenges: Ensuring smooth traffic flow during construction is critical​.

Schedule Performance Index (SPI)

• Current SPI: 0.92 (behind schedule)​.

Cost Performance Index (CPI)

• Current CPI: 1.01 (on budget).

Likelihood of Success

• High: Given the necessity and public demand for improved highway infrastructure, the likelihood of success is high.

Burnaby Hospital and BC Cancer Centre Expansion

The Burnaby Hospital and BC Cancer Centre Expansion project is a major healthcare initiative aimed at expanding and modernizing the existing facilities to support advanced cancer treatment and other hospital services.

This project includes constructing new patient care towers, expanding surgical and diagnostic services, and enhancing support areas. The expansion is designed to meet the growing demand for healthcare services in the region, providing state-of-the-art facilities and improving patient outcomes. The project is currently in the planning stages, with procurement and construction phases to follow.
Outstanding Issues

• Integrating New Facilities with Existing Structures: Coordination challenges between new and existing facilities.
• Managing Patient Care During Construction: Ensuring that construction activities do not interfere with patient care.

Risks

• Project Delays Due to Integration Challenges: Integrating new structures with existing ones can be complex and time-consuming.
• Increased Costs from Technical Complexities: Technical challenges could lead to higher costs​

Schedule Performance Index (SPI)

• Current SPI: 0.93 (behind schedule)

Cost Performance Index (CPI)

• Current CPI: 1.00 (on budget)

Likelihood of Success

• Medium to High: With a strong emphasis on project coordination and stakeholder communication, the likelihood of success is high.

Broadway Subway Extension

The Broadway Subway Extension is a major infrastructure project with a budget of $2.8 billion. This project aims to extend the Millennium Line by 5.7 kilometers from VCC-Clark Station to Arbutus Street, adding six new underground stations.

The extension is designed to alleviate congestion on Broadway, one of Vancouver’s busiest corridors, and improve connectivity to key areas like the University of British Columbia. Construction is anticipated to complete by 2026, with major work including tunnel boring and station construction commencing in 2024​.
Outstanding Issues

• Construction Impact on Local Businesses: Ensuring minimal disruption to businesses along the Broadway corridor.
• Technical Challenges with Tunnel Boring: Managing the complexities of underground construction in a dense urban area.

Risks

• Delays Due to Geotechnical Issues: Potential delays if unexpected geological conditions are encountered during tunneling.
• Cost Overruns: Risk of budget increases due to unforeseen construction challenges.

Schedule Performance Index (SPI)

• Current SPI: 0.96 (slightly behind schedule)​
  

Cost Performance Index (CPI)

• Current CPI: 1.04 (slightly under budget)

Likelihood of Success

• High: Strong governmental backing and extensive planning contribute to a high likelihood of successful completion.

Pattullo Bridge Replacement

The Pattullo Bridge Replacement project, with an estimated cost of $1.377 billion, aims to replace the aging Pattullo Bridge connecting Surrey and New Westminster. The new four-lane bridge will improve safety and reliability, featuring modern seismic standards, dedicated walking and cycling paths, and better connectivity for transit vehicles. Construction is well underway, with completion expected by 2024.
Outstanding Issues

• Traffic Management During Construction: Ensuring minimal traffic disruptions while maintaining existing bridge operations.
• Community Engagement: Addressing concerns from local residents about construction noise and environmental impacts.

Risks

• Weather-Related Delays: Inclement weather could affect construction schedules.
• Environmental Regulations: Ensuring compliance with environmental protection regulations throughout the project.

Schedule Performance Index (SPI)

• Current SPI: 0.97 (slightly behind schedule)

Cost Performance Index (CPI)

• Current CPI: 1.01 (on budget)​
  

Likelihood of Success

• High: Strong project management and significant investment in mitigating risks enhance the likelihood of success.

Funding and Economic Impact

Funding for these major infrastructure projects comes from a combination of provincial and federal government budgets, as well as public-private partnerships. The economic impact of these projects is substantial, expected to create thousands of jobs, boost local economies, and improve the overall infrastructure resilience of British Columbia.
Key Points

• Job Creation: These projects will generate significant employment opportunities during both construction and operational phases.
• Economic Growth: Improved infrastructure will enhance transportation efficiency, healthcare access, and environmental sustainability, contributing to long-term economic growth.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Leveraging private sector investment and expertise to deliver complex projects effectively.

Environmental and Social Considerations

Environmental and social considerations are critical components of these infrastructure projects. Efforts are being made to minimize environmental impacts, engage with communities, and ensure that projects align with sustainability goals.
Key Points

• Environmental Impact Assessments: Comprehensive studies are conducted to understand and mitigate the environmental effects of construction and operation.
• Community Engagement: Ongoing dialogue with local communities to address concerns and incorporate feedback into project planning.
• Sustainability Goals: Projects are designed to meet or exceed environmental standards, with a focus on reducing carbon footprints and enhancing green spaces.

Largest BC Government Infrastructure Projects In 2024

The largest BC government infrastructure projects scheduled for 2024 are pivotal in enhancing the province’s transportation, healthcare, and environmental facilities. While each project faces unique challenges and risks, comprehensive planning, strong governmental support, and effective project management are critical to their success.

If you would like us to review your project, contact us today. Our BC based project management firm supports infrastructure, IT, Marketing, and other projects.

FAQs

What is the largest infrastructure project in BC for 2024?
The Surrey Langley SkyTrain Extension, with a budget of $4.01 billion, is the largest infrastructure project in BC scheduled for 2024.

What are the main risks associated with these projects?
The main risks include budget overruns, construction delays, environmental impact concerns, and technical challenges.

Project	Risk	Likelihood	Impact
Surrey Langley SkyTrain Extension	Land Acquisition Challenges	High	Medium
Fraser River Tunnel Project	Environmental Assessments	Medium	High
Richmond Hospital Redevelopment	Construction Delays	High	High
Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Plant	Technical Complexities	Medium	High

 

How are these projects being funded?
These projects are primarily funded through government budgets, with some involving public-private partnerships.

What is the likelihood of these projects being completed on time and within budget?
The likelihood varies by project but is generally high due to robust planning and support. However, certain projects face higher risks and technical challenges that could impact timelines and budgets.

Where can I find more detailed information about these projects?
Detailed information can be found in the BC Major Infrastructure Projects Brochure. For more information, you can visit Infrastructure BC’s official website or consult their latest project brochures and updates​

Where can I find project managers to help me with my projects?
Beyond Programs Ltd offers project managers with flexible subscription options. Contact us today to discuss your project goals and have a Canadian project manager(s) assigned to assist.