Province Invests in Next Phase of Rehabilitation Work on Seal Island Bridge
The Seal Island Bridge is seen from above. The Province is investing an additional $45 million over the next four years to continue the bridge's rehabilitation. (Communications Nova Scotia / File)
The next phase of work to extend the life of a vital transportation link for people travelling the Trans-Canada Highway through Cape Breton is set to start.
The multi-year rehabilitation of the Seal Island Bridge, officially called the Great Bras d’Or Crossing, will keep it in use for an additional 15 years. Work on the bridge’s trusses began this year, and more tenders will be issued early in the new year.
“This is a crucial crossing, and we have to keep this essential transportation corridor open for people living in Cape Breton and for the goods, services and visitors that cross it every day,” said Public Works Minister Kim Masland. “Over the past year, we started the work to reinforce the structure’s steel trusses, and this investment will help us complete our rehabilitation plan.”
The Province is investing an additional $45 million in the project over the next four years, with work expected to be complete in 2028. The bridge remains structurally safe but requires rehabilitation to maintain its safety and reliability.
The project, announced last December, provides the time needed to plan for a long-term replacement of the crossing.
Quick Facts:
- the Seal Island Bridge, located in Victoria County, opened in 1961
Additional Resources:
Seal Island Bridge Benefit-Cost Analysis report: https://novascotia.ca/tran/publications/
News release – Province Begins Rehabilitation Work on Seal Island Bridge: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2023/12/19/province-begins-rehabilitation-work-seal-island-bridge
Department of Public Works on X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/NS_PublicWorks