Minister Cuts Ribbon on New Bridge

TRANSPORTATION/PUBLIC WORKS Minister Cuts Ribbon on New Bridge

Transportation and Public Works Minister Ron Russell today officially opened the new Mantua Bridge in Hants County at a ceremony attended by members of West Hants municipal council and invited guests.

The single-span concrete bridge is an important link for the communities of the Hants Shore. The previous structure, a single- lane steel bridge built in 1905, was damaged by a heavy truck several years ago.

"I'm very pleased we were able to replace the bridge, and particularly pleased there is a pedestrian walkway for the residents and tourists," said the minister. "The transportation needs of residents have changed greatly in the last century, and this new two-lane structure will be better able to handle vehicles and pedestrians."

"This is certainly a great improvement from the original one-lane bridge. Our residents can now walk the bridge and also watch their children travel the bridge on their school buses and feel comfortable," said Richard Dauphinee, warden of West Hants. "This is truly a great addition to our area, and a great day for the residents. The long wait for this new bridge was definitely worthwhile."

The new structure is 56 metres long and 10.9 metres wide, and covers two traffic lanes, as well as a pedestrian sidewalk. The bridge is filled with 320 cubic metres of concrete and 35,000 kilograms of reinforcing steel.

The contractor for the new span was Alva Construction Ltd. The bridge opened to traffic this week.