Portions of the new Port Mann Bridge may be open to the public as soon as September, though the new configurations aren't expected to have much of an impact on travel times.

Port Mann/Highway 1 Project spokesperson Max Logan told The NOW that while the plan is still in the preliminary phase, any lanes that open early will not be subject to tolls.

Logan added that the most likely scenario would see eastbound lanes opened up, but that shift will not affect bridge capacity.

"The real dramatic travel time savings are going to come in December once the full eight lanes of the bridge are open," Logan said. "The capacity [in September], in terms of lanes, is going to be equivalent to what it is now."

And while the lane shift won't affect bridge capacity, it will free up space on either sides of the bridge for the work that needs to be completed in both Coquitlam and Surrey.

In the Coquitlam context, the Cape Horn Interchange remains one of the largest elements of the plan to be completed.

Logan noted a series of lane configuration changes are slated for the area throughout September and into the fall.

"I would encourage drivers who are travelling through the Coquitlam area to be aware of signage, aware of the fact that there are going to be traffic pattern changes," he said. "We appreciate their patience and they just need to hang on for a few more months."

jkurucz@thenownews.com