Massey Tunnel closing in both directions overnight this weekend

The current Massey Tunnel has a counterflow system, meaning during peak travel times there are three lanes going in the direction with the most traffic. (CTV News)

Crews will be closing the George Massey Tunnel overnight Friday and Saturday for testing and maintenance of “life safety equipment.”

Provincial contractor Mainroad Group announced the closures in a statement Thursday.

The tunnel, which carries Highway 99 between Richmond and Delta, will close at 10 p.m. Friday night and Saturday night, reopening at 4:30 a.m. the following morning each time.

Both northbound and southbound lanes will be affected, and travellers are advised to take the Alex Fraser Bridge or another alternative route during the closures.

“Drivers are reminded to obey signs and traffic control personnel and watch for roadside workers,” Mainroad said in its statement.

The Massey Tunnel is slated to be replaced with a new, eight-lane immersed tube tunnel by 2030. Construction on the $4.15 billion project is due to begin this year, according to the provincial government.