Mantua Bridge Reopens

The Mantua bridge in Hants County reopened to traffic today at 2 p.m. after repairs by Transportation and Public Works' steel bridge crew.

The Avondale Road bridge was taken out-of-service on Saturday, Dec. 11 after a connection plate on a vertical hanger snapped. Department engineers believe the connection plate failed under an overweight load.

Transportation and Public Works' steel-bridge crew took advantage of the opportunity to replace all of the hangers to ensure the bridge was fit for traffic up to its 28-tonne load capacity. Repairs cost approximately $5,000.

"The bridge is back in good shape," said Jon Freeman, project engineer with the department.

Peter Adams, a senior engineer with Transportation and Public Works, said commercial drivers should ensure they don't exceed posted weight limits on bridges. Posted restrictions show the safe maximum load a bridge can carry.

"Weight limits are posted for public safety," said Mr. Adams. "A standard two axle truck, loaded with gravel or fuel, weighs about 28 tonnes. Gambling with posted limits can be a dangerous choice for the driver on the bridge and any motorist who might be following."

Adams said there is always a safe route for any vehicle to travel and drivers should ensure the road and bridge can handle their load.