Corrosion is to blame for a load restriction being implemented on the Lord Selkirk Bridge in Wallaceburg.
Meanwhile, the Municipality is left with a decision to make on the future of the nearly 71-year-old structure, which has a projected lifespan of 75 years.
Adam Sullo, director of engineering and transportation, said there are no immediate concerns for the bridge.
“The main concern is corrosion,” Sullo said.
“The Lord Selkirk Bridge receives a lot of heavy truck traffic. It also is exposed to the elements. We’re seeing a loss of strength on the floor beams of the structure.”
The corroded area had been replaced once before, back in the 1970’s.
Sullo said the Municipality conducts bi-annual inspections on their bridges, and they pay extra attention to their “complex structures” like the Lord Selkirk.
“We try and have a more detailed look,” he said. “Structures like the Lord Selkirk, Dundas, Baseline and Murray Street bridges are more complex compared to many others across Chatham-Kent.”
Sullo said a plan will need to be put in place for the aging structure.
A decision will need to be made whether they repair the bridges current issue, do a major rehabilitation of the bridge or look into replacing it completely.
Although the number could be increased with further inspections, Sullo said the current load restriction of 15 tonnes is “quite conservative.”
The restriction will force transport trucks, many construction vehicles and even dump trucks from using the bridge.
Instead, a detour from Murray St., to Base Line, to Old Glass Rd., to Mason St., to Arnold St. and to Dufferin Ave. will be used.
“We’re trying to get the message out the best we can,” he said, as media releases have been sent out and signage has been installed.
If people notice or spot vehicles using the bridge that shouldn’t be, they can call the Municipality at 519-360-1998.
Sullo said if this does become an on-going problem, additional enforcement with the Chatham-Kent Police Service would be utilized.
Sullo said he anticipates the load restriction to be in place for several months.
The Municipality’s direction with the bridge is expected to be chosen early in the new year.
We’ve provide more information as it becomes available.
