Construction to improve traffic between Delta and Richmond remains on track to start this year, the B.C. government said Friday — part of a major project that includes replacing the 62-year-old George Massey Tunnel.

At a press conference, Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Rob Fleming said his government selected a “preferred proponent” last week to design and build the Steveston interchange, a key part of improvements to Highway 99.

“When we have the new tunnel in place, we know that travel for drivers and people using public transit will be better and more reliable and quicker,” Fleming told reporters near the construction site in Richmond on Friday.

“More capacity through the tunnel, combined with our Highway 99 improvements, will allow vehicles to move faster and save significant travel time.”

The project is budgeted to cost at least $4.15 billion.

Last month, the province announced it had signed nine contracts for “technical and engineering” expertise towards the project.

Two of the new tunnel’s eight lanes will be dedicated to public transit buses, and there will be separate pathways for cyclists and pedestrians.

Delta Mayor George Harvie said he is looking forward to dedicated transit lanes that are planned with the bridge, in addition to cyclist and pedestrian paths.

Keep reading on CBC News