Premier Pat Binns and Transportation and Public Works Minister Gail Shea today toured the Sturgeon Bridge and reviewed plans for future improvements as part of the province's Bridge Reconstruction Strategy.
The Sturgeon Bridge, a six-span wooden structure spanning the Sturgeon River, was first constructed in the 1950's and over the years has serviced surrounding communities as well as the local fishing industry. Review by staff as part of the department's Bridge Reconstruction Strategy found some structural issues with both the wooden abutments and pile caps which had suffered damage due to frost heaving.
"The Sturgeon bridge is important to local fishers and to the community at large. By investing in improvements to this bridge, we are ensuring that this infrastructure is renewed for the future benefit of the community and the travelling public," said Premier Pat Binns.
The improvements scheduled include replacing the existing timber structure with a new three-span, pre-stressed concrete girder, a new concrete deck and an asphalt wearing surface. New reinforced concrete abutments will replace the existing wooden abutments, minimizing risk of damage from frost heaving. Additionally, road reconstruction on Route 17 will take place in conjunction with the project to accommodate approaches to the bridge.
"Many communities like Sturgeon have benefited from the Bridge Reconstruction Strategy through improved transportation and safety. Many of our bridges are ageing and, by taking a needs-based approach, we are helping address the most pressing community needs one bridge at a time, as resources permit," said Transportation and Public Works Minister Gail Shea.
During the construction period, traffic will be re-routed to allow work to be done as quickly and safely as possible. Preliminary engineering work has been completed, and tenders will be called shortly. The project is tentatively scheduled to be completed by March, 2003.