Massive Bridge Repair Project Enters Final Phase

TRANSPORTATION/PUBLIC WORKS--Massive Bridge Repair Project Enters Final Phase

After nearly three years and $15 million dollars, one of the largest bridge repair projects in Nova Scotia is entering its final phase. The tender to complete work on the Seal Island Bridge is about to be awarded.

This summer, workers from AllSteel Coatings Ltd. of Port Hawkesbury will replace the deck on the centre spans of the Seal Island Bridge, on Cape Breton Island's Highway 105. The work also includes strengthening the steel truss under the bridge deck, and improvements to the structure's navigational lights.

"It's really an amazing engineering story, and it's been done entirely with Nova Scotian companies," said Michael Baker, Minister of Transportation and Public Works. "It demonstrates the skills of the workers in our province, and the government's commitment to our roads and bridges.

"This work should extend the life of the bridge for another 50 years."

This year's work will cost $6 million, part of the total project costs of $15 million. Work is expected to begin in April, and continue until mid-October.

The 42-year-old Seal Island Bridge is located on Trans-Canada Highway 105. It is a key link in this portion of the Trans-Canada Highway for travellers to the Newfoundland ferry at North Sydney. It connects Kellys Mountain to Boularderie Island and spans the Great Bras d'Or channel.

Damage caused by years of heavy traffic and exposure to wind and salt spray made repairs necessary. The deck on the approach spans, totaling 386 metres (1,265 feet), was replaced in 2001 and 2002. This year's final phase will replace the deck on three centre spans, totaling 367 metres (1204) feet. Previously, workers also replaced decking on the bridge's remaining 380 metres (1,250 feet).