Islanders and visitors alike will once again be able to fully enjoy one of the Island’s most scenic drives now that the province has completed the $4.5 million replacement of the Darnley Bridge on Route 20, says Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal Ron MacKinley.
“Residents and area business owners have been extremely patient while the province worked to complete the replacement project, and I want to thank them for that,” said Minister MacKinley. “It was very important to complete this project before tourism season given the number of visitors who enjoy the scenery in the area as well as the food and the summer accommodations.”
The original structure was built in 1961 and was part of the Department’s bridge replacement plan for 2010. The bridge was subject to weight restrictions through the spring and summer of last year after routine inspections picked up damage to several of the timbers that support the bridge deck. The replacement project began in the early fall.
“The new bridge is built longer and wider to improve safety for cyclists, pedestrians and farm equipment,” said Minister MacKinley. “That way it can be safely enjoyed by anyone touring this part of the Island.”
Since 2007 the province, through Build PEI, has replaced or carried out major repairs on 34 bridge structures. That represents an investment of over $45 million. This year the province will carry out major replacement projects on the Cardigan bridge, Greek River bridge, Point Pleasant bridge and Ross’ Corner bridge.