Drivers using the Lions Gate Bridge to get on and off the North Shore might want to take a different route this weekend.

Heavy traffic volumes and delays are expected from 8 p.m. on Saturday until 8 a.m. on Sunday as rehabilitation work beings. Workers will be installing a temporary bridge cover and 13-metre approach ramps that will allow crews to safely work beneath the bridge deck on repairs to the north tower expansion joint.

article continues below

The installation work requires single-lane alternating traffic and motors are being warned to expect delays. The sidewalks will remain open for pedestrians and cyclists.

The work is weather dependent. Drivers are advised to check drivebc.ca, or @DriveBC on Twitter, for the most up-to-date information.

Once installed the temporary cover will be safe for normal driving speeds on the corridor and drivers are encouraged to drive with the normal flow of traffic. The maintenance work on the span, which opened in 1938 and sees about 60,000 vehicles a day, is expected to be completed by October.