Please be advised that this is a Metro Vancouver project. We kindly ask that you direct all questions, comments, or complaints directly to Metro Vancouver.

Metro Vancouver is replacing a section of the aging sewer along East Columbia Street between Cumberland Street and Debeck Street with a new sewer pipe.​​ 

The Sapperton S​ewer is part of critical infrastructure that moves wastewater safely from communities in New Westminster to the Annacis Island Wastewater Treatment Plant. The sewer was built in the 1970s and needs repairs to ensure the continued protection of public health and the environment.

For more information about this project, please visit the Metro Vancouver website.

Project Update

August 4, 2026

Vehicle, cyclist, and pedestrian traffic in the area will be affected. Please follow the direction of signage and traffic control personnel who will ensure that vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians can safely move through the project area.

• Significant traffic delays are expected, and drivers are advised to take alternate routes where possible. Pedestrian and vehicle detours will be in place (please see map below).
• To access Sapperton and Royal Columbian Hospital from downtown, please follow the detour along McBride Boulevard to Eighth Avenue.
• Construction in the southbound lanes of East Columbia Street (at least one lane of traffic will be maintained in each direction).
• Northbound traffic on East Columbia Street must turn right on Brunette Avenue.
• No access to Debeck Street from East Columbia Street
• No access to Cumberland Street from East Columbia Street
• Sidewalk closures on Cumberland Street and East Columbia Street.
• Bus stop #53110 on northbound East Columbia Street near Alberta Street will be closed (please contact TransLink for information regarding detours affecting route #109 between Lougheed Station and New Westminster Station)
• Noise from excavators, trucks, generators, and pumps

For more information about this project, please visit the Metro Vancouver website.