Transportation and Public Works Minister Don MacKinnon today joined with Morell-Fortune Bay MLA Kevin MacAdam and members of the local fishing community to officially open the recently completed Naufrage Bridge as part of the Department of Transportation and Public Works Bridge Reconstruction Strategy.
"The Naufrage Bridge was identified by engineering staff as being in need of upgrading as part of our recently announced Bridge Reconstruction Strategy. By undertaking projects like this, we are planning for the future by helping ensure the long-term safety and quality of our bridges in a fiscally responsible manner," said MacKinnon.
The bridge at Naufrage was originally constructed in 1959. The repair work completed involved solidifying the structure through replacement of the piles, pile caps, and stringers. A new deck, guardrail and asphalt surface were also installed.
The Naufrage Bridge serves as a main access point for the local fishing community, noted area MLA Kevin MacAdam. "The work carried out on the Naufrage Bridge by the province will assist the community by creating a safe access to the wharf which is used by over 90 fishers who in turn contribute a great deal to our local economy," said MacAdam.
A portion of the road leading to the bridge experienced damage during this year's spring thaw. MacKinnon indicated that his department is working now on finalizing arrangements for repairs to be conducted on this section of road as well to complement work completed on the bridge.
The Bridge Reconstruction Strategy is a multi-year program to ensure the long-term quality and safety of the Provincial Road Network by addressing maintenance deficiencies in the province's bridge inventory.