Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2018 to replace the Parsnip River Bridge on Highway 97 North.
“Highway 97 North is used extensively as a corridor to transport people, supplies, services and finished products to job sites and to market,” said Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Claire Trevena, in a press release. “The new Parsnip River Bridge will be able to accommodate larger commercial vehicles and will provide a safer, more comfortable crossing for residents of the surrounding communities.”
The existing steel truss bridge, built in 1953, will be replaced by a wider, open-top structure with no height restrictions and increased weight capacity. This will improve access between the Peace River region and the rest of British Columbia.
Additionally, approximately two kilometres of highway will be realigned to provide better sight lines for drivers.
Eiffage Innovated Canada Inc., from Burlington, Ont., was awarded the $18.5-million contract. This project is jointly funded by the Government of Canada and the province.
Construction will start in early 2018, with the new bridge expected to be fully operational in the fall of 2019. Deconstruction of the old bridge will be completed by spring 2020.
