The largest bridge spanning the Miramichi River is getting a facelift.
The iconic Centennial Bridge has linked the Chatham and Douglastown sides of the Miramichi River since it opened in September of 1967, but 48 years of traffic flow has taken a toll.
Over the next ten years, the federal and provincial governments will spend $82.8 million on refurbishment, adding another 50 years to the bridge’s life span. The province will contribute $44.2 million, while Ottawa will chip in $38.6 million.
“By investing the levels of money, over the next nine years, that we are projecting to, we’ll extend the life cycle of this bridge by over 50 years,” said N.B. Transportation Minister Roger Melanson.
The project involves maintaining the bridge’s structural integrity, increasing its load capacity and bringing the roadway up to current design standards. Refurbishment of the bridge actually began last year. Phase two goes ahead this summer, with three more phases to follow.
Previous work on the bridge has created some traffic problems, but Miramichi Mayor Gerry Cormier figures that the almost 15,000 daily bridge users will understand some inconvenience while this work is done.
“When you consider the bridge has been here since 1967, it’s time. So I think people will realize it’s a safety issue, we have to do this and make the bridge last another 50 or 60 years, it’s wonderful news,” said Miramichi Mayor Gerry Cormier
While work will be contracted out, all levels of government are hoping as many locals can be employed on the project as possible.
With files from CTV Atlantic’s Andy Campbell
