Willow River Bridge Reopens

Thursday, September 24, 2009 10:51 AM

New Willow River Bridge open

Prince George, B.C.-Emergency structural repairs on the Willow River Bridge are now complete and the crossing has reopened to motorists and area school buses, Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Shirley Bond announced today.

(at rightSurespan workers installing piece of concrete decking to WillowRiver Bridge earlier this month)

"We know how important this bridge is to area residents and so we had it repaired as quickly as possible after it was damaged by debris in last spring's freshet," said Bond. "I would like to thank area residents and the local community for their patience and understanding while the repair work was underway. The Willow River Bridge is now stronger than ever, with a capacity for many more years of dependable service to the community."

A newly-installed concrete barrier between the pilings will prevent logs from becoming trapped and damaging the structure. Wooden approach spans have been replaced with concrete and steel, and the bridge's load limit has been restored to its former capacity of 63.5 tonnes. These improvements will greatly increase the bridge's dependability and minimize damage due to ice and debris.

Surespan Construction Ltd. of North Vancouver was the contractor for the repairs.

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Posted on Thursday, September 24, 2009 10:51 AM in News by 250 News

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Comments

Posted by: DPJ on September 24 2009 1:35 PM

should of made it 2 lanes for future growth.

Posted by: Loki on September 24 2009 2:55 PM

that would require forethought and planning.
It seems that those that look after infrastructure are unable to see past current requirements.

Posted by: He spoke on September 24 2009 3:48 PM

Yep, Willow River, our little OZARK. Things are different in those neck of the woods, Men are men, and sheeps are scared.

Posted by: He spoke on September 24 2009 3:52 PM

it truly is short sightedness, and a quick fix.

I was always under the impression that a Bailey Bridge was a temporary repair.

With the slow down in Forestry, I am sure we could have popped one of them bridges and threw it in. Seems like MoFR has one sitting in their yard.

Posted by: icecapp on September 24 2009 7:44 PM

Considering the number of successful business people who reside in the Willow River area and beyond, I believe that 'He spoke' should have thought first before commenting without any regard. Perhaps 'he' should continue to play with the sheep in his own backyard (maybe give it a donkey punch..LOL)

The bridge has been a 'temporary' structure for a considerable number of years and should be completely replaced. But again, that would require some thought on the part of government instead of quick promises amid a looming election.

The East Line is in fact a very beautiful area and the people are very nice. It's a wonderful area to live in and visit, with many activities for those who aren't afraid of sheep or to leave city limits.

;)

Posted by: shie on September 24 2009 8:21 PM

I wouldnt go as far to say "New Bridge" just a new onramp woooooo and closed for 24 days :(

Posted by: supertech on September 24 2009 9:04 PM

It's still a one lane cow trail.

Posted by: Palopu on September 24 2009 9:51 PM

Maybe they should develop the Willow River Industrial Park. Then they could get Federal and Provincial and Regional money and build a two lane bridge. Im sure they get about as much traffic as the totally under utilized new Cameron St. Bridge.