Iconic Expo 86 'McBarge' partially capsized in Fraser River
The iconic "McBarge" vessel, which housed a McDonald's restaurant during Expo 86 in Vancouver, was on its side and partially capsized in the Fraser River on Wednesday.
The McBarge is a 57-metre-long barge that became iconic after being moored in False Creek during the world exposition in 1986 near other Expo icons like B.C. Place and Science World.
But since its stint as a McDonald's restaurant, the barge — officially known as the Friendship 500 — has never seen visitors. It has been derelict for decades, and anchored in both Burrard Inlet and the Fraser River.
On Wednesday, two CBC News reporters took photographs of the iconic vessel on its side in the Fraser River. CBC News has reached out to the coast guard and the owner of the McBarge for more information.
The McBarge, a former McDonald's restaurant built on a barge, is pictured capsized in the Fraser River in Maple Ridge, B.C, on Wednesday. (Ben Nelms/CBC)
A spokesperson for the City of Maple Ridge said they are aware of reports regarding a "sinking vessel" in the Fraser River.
"While the vessel is located in federal waters and not under City jurisdiction, we understand the public's concerns and are actively engaged in responding," the spokesperson wrote.
The now derelict McDonald's restaurant barge, was once festooned and a star at Expo 86. (CBC)
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