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Closure of Louise Bridge for Essential Repairs
The Louise Bridge will undergo a temporary closure on Friday for maintenance work. From 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., the bridge will be inaccessible to vehicles as repair crews address issues related to the bridge’s bearings. However, pedestrians will still have access to the west walkway during this time.
Mayor Scott Gillingham commented on the situation, stating, “My understanding is right now it’s just annual maintenance, just an initial look.” This indicates that the ongoing work is part of routine checks to ensure the integrity and safety of the infrastructure.
Historical Significance and Future Concerns
The Louise Bridge, according to the Manitoba Historical Society, has been a vital structure since its construction in 1910. Initially serving as a railway bridge, it underwent modifications to accommodate vehicle traffic over the years. As it stands today, this 115-year-old bridge is not only an important transportation route but also a piece of historical architecture.
A report issued last year highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive renovations, citing that the bridge must undergo significant repairs by 2030. The findings revealed various concerns, including severe deterioration of the bridge deck, non-functional support bearings, and issues with structural steel and underwater river piers.
In response to these challenges, Mayor Gillingham noted, “Ultimately in this budget, we do have money for future years that we’ve talked about before, we’ve approved so that we can extend the life of the Louise Bridge for 25 years.” This initiative reflects the city’s commitment to preserving essential infrastructure while planning for long-term sustainability.
Major Repairs Ahead
Significantly, the larger repair project is anticipated to commence in 2029, aiming to thoroughly address the concerns highlighted in the previous report. As the city prepares for these extensive upgrades, officials emphasize the importance of maintaining safety and reliability for all users of the bridge.
Source
globalnews.ca