The Johnston Bridge is set to re-open for lightweight vehicle traffic as of 7 p.m. tonight, says a City of Quesnel press release.
Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,000 kilograms or lower will be permitted on the bridge, but all industrial traffic and heavy commercial traffic will remain on detour. The weight rating will include all personal vehicles including cars, pick-up trucks, SUVs and minivans. Pedestrian and bicycle traffic are also allowed.
The news release asks residents to check their insurance papers if they are unsure about their vehicle’s weight rating.
McCall Engineering assessed the bridge over the past week. The firm, hired by the City, is working to determine options that will return the bridge to full service, says the release.
Industrial traffic and heavy commercial traffic must detour via Plywood Road and Maple Drive. Industrial traffic is not allowed to detour through Johnston Subdivision.
From a recent bridge inspection, the City was made aware that areas of the bridge structure are compromised. As a safety precaution, the City made the decision to close the Johnston Bridge to all vehicle traffic on Wednesday, October 3.
City manager Byron Johnson told the Observer last week that engineers discovered rust holes during a detailed inspection.
He said they hope to know more within the month.
“The City would like to thank the public for their co-operation,” says the Oct. 9 news release.
READ MORE: Johnston Bridge to close from Oct. 3 due to “compromised” bridge structure