The bridge that crosses the Red River Floodway along Highway 59 is slated for replacement. (GOOGLE STREET VIEW)
WINNIPEG — The province is issuing a tender to replace the ageing Highway 59 bridge that spans the Red River Floodway.
Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler announced Tuesday the tender will go out by next week, with a goal of having a replacement bridge constructed within three years.
“Our governments’ priority is safety; this bridge is 56-years-old, deteriorating and requires replacement as it has exceeded its original design service life,” said Schuler.
“Over 17,000 vehicles cross this bridge daily and we need to ensure the safe movement of both people and goods can continue.”
The bridge serves as a vital link to Birds Hill Provincial Park, Whiteshell and Grand Beach, as well as Manitoba’s cottage country in and around Lac du Bonnet.
The bridge was damaged on July 12, 2018 when a dump truck with its bucket up hit the underside of the bridge on Oasis Road. Manitoba Infrastructure determined the bridge’s girder was damaged and a portion of the deck needed to be removed.
The province says the north and southbound bridges will be built to replace the existing structure and roadway realignments will take place. The bridge will also see an increased clearance of 1.5 metres in height to meet new floodway standards.
Construction is scheduled to be completed by fall 2023.
