Seal Island Bridge Project Resumes

TRANSPORTATION/PUBLIC WORKS--Seal Island Bridge Project Resumes

Construction work on the Seal Island Bridge resumes this week. The third and final phase of the three-year project to replace the bridge deck begins today, April 28.

Work will continue until mid-October. Traffic will be restricted to one lane, controlled by signal lights and sometimes by traffic control workers. During daylight hours, motorists can expect delays of up to 20 minutes, slightly longer when Newfoundland ferry traffic arrives.

Between midnight and 6 a.m., when traffic volumes are lowest, the bridge may close for up to half an hour while workers install the pre-cast panels that will form the new deck. Occasional longer overnight closures may occur as construction challenges arise.

Crews have been preparing the bridge recently for construction work and drivers may have already experienced some delays.

Motorists can obtain up-to-date information on overnight closures, expected bridge delays, alternative routes, special requirements for truck traffic, and the reasons for the reconstruction project by calling the toll-free Highway Info Line: 1-866-720-2800.

The Highway Info Line also enables callers to record messages for the project team with any comments, suggestions, or concerns they may have.

For their own safety and that of bridge workers, motorists are urged to observe posted speed limits and traffic signals. The Nova Scotia Department of Transportation and Public Works regrets any inconvenience caused by the work.

"This has been one of the largest and most complex bridge reconstruction projects ever undertaken in Nova Scotia," said Michael Baker, Minister of Transportation and Public Works. "It will greatly improve the bridge, and the work has all been carried out by Nova Scotia companies."

This year's work -- awarded to AllSteel Coatings of Port Hawkesbury in a competitive tender -- will cost $6 million, out of $15 million total project costs.

This summer, workers will replace the deck on the three centre spans of the bridge, a total of 367 metres (1204) feet. The deck on the approach spans, totaling 386 metres (1,265 feet), was replaced in 2001 and 2002.

The work also includes strengthening the steel truss under the bridge deck, and improvements to the structure's navigational lights. The project will result in wider travel lanes and improved railings.

The Seal Island Bridge spans the Great Bras d'Or Channel on TransCanada Highway 105, connecting Kelly's Mountain and Boularderie Island, about 20 kilometres west of the Newfoundland Ferry Terminal at North Sydney.

The location is one of Nova Scotia's most challenging highway environments. Replacing the deck became necessary after years of wear and tear from heavy traffic and exposure to wind and salt spray.