March 8, 2012
Major Repairs to Result in Closure of Bridge on Trans-Canada Highway Just West of Brandon Tomorrow
– – –Highway Remains Open
Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation (MIT) advises that plans are being made for major repairs to the westbound Grand Valley Bridge on the Trans-Canada Highway over the Assiniboine River, just west of Brandon. The bridge will be closed tomorrow at 3 p.m. Almost all vehicles will be able to use the adjoining eastbound bridge, but it will be one lane in each direction.
As part of an ongoing inspection, MIT staff has found significant damage under the westbound bridge caused by the 2011 flood. The eastbound bridge has been fully inspected and does not require any repairs.
This type of damage, called scour, where water has taken away rock and supporting material under the westbound bridge’s support system (piers), will require extensive repairs, lasting up to four months.
It is a top priority to reopen this bridge as soon as possible. Due to the magnitude of the damage, placing rock around the piers is not an option and much more extensive work is required including constructing coffer dams and installing additional piles and concrete.
Speed reductions will be put in place in the area to ensure safety as vehicles go through the construction zone. Over-width trucks will, however, be restricted from using this route but MIT’s Motor Carrier Division will work with these operators to find an alternative route.
In 2011, Manitoba had one of the biggest floods on record. Many roads and bridges have had flood damage repaired. MIT has found issues with flood damage to other bridges and those have been repaired, typically by placing rock along the piers and abutments.
There are 35 other bridges on the Assiniboine and Souris rivers in southwest Manitoba that continue to be monitored and surveyed. MIT has not encountered the level of damage found at the Grand Valley Bridge elsewhere.
Directional signs are in place on area roads. The latest information on road conditions is available any time toll-free at 511, at www.mb511.ca or by following the new Twitter account @MBGovRoads.
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