Damage to an important regional bridge should see repairs begin in a few days, according to the provincial government.
Alberta Transportation spokesperson Wayne Wood said repairs to the Sec. Hwy. #616 bridge which crosses Hwy. #2 west of Millet are scheduled to begin any day now, weather permitting.
“A contract has been awarded for repairs to the Highway 616 (Millet) overpass and work will begin September 11, weather permitting, and should be complete by the end of October,” stated Wood in an email.
“The cost of repairs is estimated at $750,000.’
The bridge was damaged earlier this year when a commercial truck on Hwy. #2 left the road and struck a support pylon.
“The collision and resulting fire in January of this year caused extensive damage to the centre pillar and girders under the bridge,” stated Wood. “Most work will be completed in the median and there will be minimal traffic delays.
“In the meantime, the overpass continues to operate with a single lane of alternating traffic at a reduced speed, controlled by traffic signals.
“Following the collision a detailed engineering inspection determined the overpass was safe with no load or weight restrictions.
“Travellers can check 511 for updates as repairs continue.”