A tractor-trailer crashed into the overhead canopy of a toll booth on the MacKay Bridge Wednesday morning, causing extensive damage and slowing down traffic during rush hour.
Steve Snider, the general manager and CEO of Halifax Harbour Bridges, says the Halifax-bound vehicle became stuck after it went through the wrong toll lane around 8 a.m.
Three of the seven toll lanes on the MacKay Bridge are taller to accommodate tractor-trailers and other large vehicles, but the driver went through one of the shorter lanes.
“The individual went into a lane that is made to accommodate automobiles,” says Snider. “He was going at a speed sufficient that he basically cleared the top of the canopy.”
No one was injured, but there is extensive damage to the toll booth. Three tolls remained closed as the scene was cleared and the damage was assessed.
“This is the most expensive damage I’ve seen in my 20-plus years here at the Commission,” says Snider. “First and foremost, we’re very fortunate nobody was hurt. This is a work zone for all of our staff.”
Snider says engineers will assess the concrete that remains intact to ensure it’s safe to work around.
"Generally, it's not too bad,” says bridge engineer Jon Eppell. "The vehicle went pretty much straight through and lifted the canopy roof off and dropped it. It scraped the sides, the columns and the supports, but everything looks stable for the moment."
The truck was towed and cleared by the afternoon.
Snider says there is a great sense of relief all the way around.
“We're very fortunate nobody was hurt. This is a work zone for all of our staff," he says.
Halifax Regional Police is also investigating the incident.
With files from CTV Atlantic’s Bruce Frisko.
