KITIMAT – Repairs and upgrades coming soon to the Old Skeena Bridge will rehabilitate the historic structure and maintain a safe crossing over the Skeena River.
“In addition to being an important crossing, this bridge is an important local landmark and a recognized heritage site, and we’re very pleased to be able to extend its life through this rehab work,” said Rob Fleming, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.
Gitga’at Park Derochie Industrial Services Inc. of Kitimat has been awarded a $22.6-million contract to rehabilitate the bridge. This work includes a full paint recoating, steelwork structural repairs, bearing replacements and sidewalk upgrades.
The Old Skeena Bridge was opened to the public on July 21, 1925, and spans more than 300 metres across the Skeena River. A major reconstruction took place in 1953.
“The Old Skeena Bridge provides our community with an important alternate crossing for the Skeena River,” said Carol Leclerc, mayor of Terrace. “With this rehabilitation work, residents can be assured the bridge is safe and secure.”
Work is scheduled to begin in summer and the rehabilitation is planned to be complete in fall 2023.
For the safety of drivers and workers, the bridge will be closed to traffic while the work is carried out, but is expected to be reopened during a winter work shutdown. Drivers will be able to use the Dudley Bridges as an alternate route to cross the Skeena River.
