New Bridge Slated for Meteghan

A new two-lane panel bridge with sidewalk is going to be built across the Meteghan River along Trunk 1.

Motorists should be crossing the new structure in early November, said Ron Russell, Minister of Transportation and Public Works. It will replace a timber bridge that collapsed recently.

"Staff will work as quickly as possible to provide service across the river," said Mr. Russell. "I appreciate the patience of residents as we move forward together."

The new bridge will carry heavy trucks, including fully-loaded semi-trailers. Cost of the project is expected to be $700,000.

An investigation into the collapse of the timber bridge is ongoing.

The Department of Transportation and Public Works' highways division manages more than 23,000 kilometres of roads in Nova Scotia. It maintains an inventory of 3,800 bridges and operates seven provincial ferries. Staff provide services from district offices located in Bridgewater, Bedford, Truro and Sydney.