The City of Prince George is about to begin an operation first to limit and then to repair damage to the new bridge on Willow Cale Road caused by unstable ground under the structure.
Consequently, the bridge will be closed to vehicle traffic starting on Friday, September 1 at 5 p.m. Until then, the bridge is open at a reduced speed limit and motorists are advised to obey traffic control.
Earlier this month, cracks appeared in the new asphalt leading to the bridge deck, indicating unstable ground beneath the span. The city has engaged an independent engineering consultant to investigate why this happened and to identify next steps.
The city’s first priority is stabilizing the ground underneath the bridge structure by installing a temporary culvert in Haggith Creek and covering it with at least five metres of fill. This work is beginning immediately. Subsequently, the city will assess and repair any damage to the bridge structure.
The city is advising businesses and residents in the area about the bridge closure and of alternate routes. At this time, it is not known how long the remediation and repair operation will take, but it is expected that it could be many months. City staff and consultants continue to monitor the bridge daily.
