Pictou West MLA Charlie Parker said Weir’s Bridge has been removed and construction of a new panel bridge is expected to begin as early as next week.
“Hopeful it will be done as soon as possible so that it can be replaced,” said Parker, adding it may take a few weeks to complete the work.
The bridge collapsed on Jan. 16 when a snowplow was clearing snow. It was never determined if the bridge, a wood-planked deck over a steel truss, collapsed prior to the truck crossing it or if the truck caused it. The truck had its front wheels off the bridge and was able to get safely off. There were no injuries to the driver and the snowplow was not damaged.
Since this time, motorists have been detoured onto the Otter Road in Pictou County, but it has not held up well over the course of a fairly mild spring, Parker said.
“The Otter Road is in poor condition and the residents are concerned about it,” he said, adding that the combination of the higher traffic and the recent spring thaw has made it difficult to use.
He said his office is advising motorists to travel on the R. Grant Road, if possible, when needing to reach Caribou Island. The Caribou Fire Department has also been advised to avoid Otter Road, unless there is fire specifically at a residence, because of poor road conditions.
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