Traffic Counterflow Operations

Last updated on April 8, 2026

A counterflow system allows operators to change the direction of traffic in one or more lanes to create more efficient traffic flow, especially during peak periods.

Operators monitor the Lions Gate Bridge and George Massey Tunnel 24/7, adjusting lanes based on traffic, visibility and weather conditions.

On this page:


Lions Gate Bridge

Lions Gate Bridge North End 1

Lions Gate Bridge north end, looking south

Lions Gate Bridge Highway Cam Live Image

Approximate weekday counterflow times:

  • 6:00 to 9:30 am
    Two lanes southbound, one lane northbound
  • 3:00 to 7:00 pm
    Predominantly two lanes northbound, one lane southbound with periods of two lanes southbound as required

Lions Gate Bridge North End 2

Lions Gate Bridge north end, looking North

Lions Gate Bridge Highway Cam Live Image

 

George Massey Tunnel

Deas

Highway 99 north of Highway 17A overpass, looking north

George Massey Tunnel Highway Highway 99 north of Highway 17A overpass, looking north

Steveston

Highway 99 at Steveston interchange, looking south

George Massey Tunnel Highway Highway 99 at Steveston interchange, looking south


September to June

Approximate weekday counterflow times:

  • 5:45 to 9:30 am
    Three lanes northbound, one lane southbound
  • 3 to 6:30 pm
    Three lanes southbound, one lane northbound

July and August

Approximate weekday counterflow times:

  • 5:45 to 9:00 am
    Three lanes northbound, one lane southbound
  • 3:15 to 6:00 pm
    Three lanes southbound, one land northbound

Alex Fraser Bridge

Alex Fraser Bridge - N

Alex Fraser Bridge, mid-span, looking north

Alex Fraser Bridge - N

Alex Fraser Bridge - S

Alex Fraser Bridge, mid-span, looking south

Alex Fraser Bridge South counterflow

Annacis Island - N

Highway 91 on Annacis Island at the Cliveden Ave Overpass, looking north

Annacis Island - N

Annacis Island - E

Highway  91 on Annacis Island at the Cliveden Ave Overpass, looking east

Annacis Island - E

Annacis Island - S
Highway 91 on Annacis Island at the Cliveden Ave Overpass, looking south

Annacis Island - S

Annacis Island - W
Highway 91 on Annacis Island at the Cliveden Ave Overpass, looking west

Annacis Island - W

The counterflow operates Monday to Friday except for holidays. Subject to road conditions.

  • 4:30 to 11:30 am
    Four lanes northbound, three lanes southbound

  • Rest of day/night
    Four lanes southbound, three lanes northbound

  • Weekends/Holidays
    Four lanes southbound, three lanes northbound
How They Work

 

How the Lions Gate Bridge Counterflow Works

Learn how we manage the Lions Gate Bridge lane control system

 


How the Zipper Truck Will Help Your Alex Fraser Bridge Commute

Learn how the zipper truck will help your alex fraser bridge commute

 

Useful Contacts

Current Highway Conditions

  • Telephone: 1-800-550-4997
  • Check weather alerts for BC from Environment Canada

Report a Highway Problem

ICBC Insured Vehicle Accidents

  • Report a claim
  • Lower Mainland
    Telephone: 604-520-8222
  • North America
    Toll-free: 1-800-910-4222