The images from the cameras of the highways of the Ministry of Transport of BC. showed vehicles leaning from bumper to bumper far beyond 8th Avenue in Surrey as families flocked to the US for day trips and weekend getaways.
Some drivers were also stuck waiting 90 minutes or more on crossing the Pacific. The lines at both intersections were large enough to require a traffic alert from the Surrey RCMP, which advised travelers to contact DriveBC before starting.
“While waiting in line, do not block roads, intersections or paths as people in local neighborhoods need to have access to their homes,” said Staff Sgt. Andrea McKinney said in a press release.
Waiting times were shorter at Sumas and Aldergrove crossings, but often 30 minutes or more.
The crowded border was no surprise, as it came less than two weeks after Canada eased the requirement for preliminary tests, allowing fully vaccinated Canadians to return home without a negative COVID-19 test.
Travelers still need to fill in their vaccination details in the ArriveCAN app.
Does anyone know why the #PAChwy border going south is not moving? We waited for 5 hours and we are only halfway between 8th and 4th Avenue ..
– Amy Ruggieri (@amyruggieri) April 15, 2022
BC Ferries has also warned passengers to look forward to a busy weekend, which could mean sailing for those who have not booked.
Friday morning and Monday afternoon are expected to be the busiest hours for coastal shipping. BC Ferries encouraged non-booked travelers to arrive up to 60 minutes in advance to travel during these periods.
“If you are traveling without a reservation, consider traveling as a pedestrian or in less busy times to avoid waiting,” the company said on Twitter on Friday.
It’s the first long weekend since Canada eased pre-entry test requirements and many are taking advantage … at least a three-hour wait here at the Pacific Highway Crossing @CTVVancouver pic.twitter.com/CdeuPUUPHI
– Ben Nesbit (@BenNesbitTV) April 15, 2022
