The Province of British Columbia and TransLink are providing funding support for emergency barge service to and from Westham Island in Delta. This action ensures that essential goods continue to move while repairs to the Westham Island Bridge are underway.
The Westham Island Bridge, owned by TransLink, was closed after a marine vessel struck it on January 20, 2026. Safety inspections found serious damage to a key support structure, shifting parts of the bridge and making it unsafe for vehicle traffic. Repairs are expected to take several weeks, with timelines affected by weather, tides, soil conditions, and ongoing construction findings.
“This commitment by the Province will make sure British Columbians can continue to benefit from the produce grown by farmers on Westham Island,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food. “I share the concerns of farmers, and I want to acknowledge the rapid response and tireless efforts by the City of Delta to help the agricultural community at this critical time.”
Westham Island is a vital agricultural area that plays an important role in British Columbia’s food supply. The island produces more than 25% of the province’s seed potatoes, along with vegetables, berries, honey, and livestock. Farming takes place across more than 700 hectares of land, supporting both the provincial economy and local food systems.
“Westham Island plays an important role in helping feed people across British Columbia,” said Kelly Greene, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness. “Maintaining reliable access means emergency equipment and other critical supplies can continue moving to and from the island. This is essential to protecting the health and safety of people and livestock who depend on that connection.”
To reduce disruption, the Province will reimburse eligible transport costs for goods related to public health, safety, urgent animal welfare, and provincial food security. TransLink is also providing funding to the City of Delta through its local government programs to support efficient movement of essential supplies. This includes maintaining barge operations and securing temporary warehouse space for farmers.
"To help protect food security, TransLink is providing funding to the City of Delta to sustain barge operations and secure temporary warehouse space for farmers, supporting the continued movement of essential agricultural products, emergency supplies and everyday necessities on and off the island,” said Kevin Quinn, CEO, TransLink.
Continued barge access allows seed-potato farmers to deliver crops to Lower Mainland vegetable producers in time for spring planting. This helps protect the upcoming growing season and ensures steady food production.
The City of Delta has activated its Emergency Operations Centre and is working closely with farmers, TransLink, and the Province to address agricultural and community needs. Together, these partners are focused on maintaining safe access, supporting farmers, and protecting British Columbia’s food security until the bridge is fully repaired.
This coordinated response highlights the importance of reliable transportation in supporting agriculture, public safety, and everyday necessities during emergencies.