George Massey Tunnel replacement cost rises to $8.5 billion

The cost of replacing the George Massey Tunnel in British Columbia has increased to $8.5 billion, more than doubling the original estimate of $4.15 billion. Transportation and Transit Minister Mike Farnworth said Monday that the federal government will contribute up to $3 billion toward the capital cost of the new tollfree, eightlane tunnel. He said the higher budget reflects updated design and construction estimates. The project’s completion date has also been delayed, with work now expected to finish in September 2031 instead of December 2030. Construction is still expected to begin next year, and the province says the tunnel design remains unchanged despite changes in procurement.