Northern Ontario bridge fails in cold, closing Manitoba's route to Thunder Bay
A newly constructed bridge in northern Ontario has reportedly split apart in the cold, closing the Trans-Canada highway — the only road connecting Eastern and Western Canada — indefinitely.
For Manitobans, that means there is no way to drive to Thunder Bay, Ont.
The Nipigon River Bridge has been closed for “an indefinite time due to mechanical issues,” according to the Ontario Provincial Police. Reports in Ontario suggest an expansion joint has failed.
As a result, police have shut down Highways 11 and 17 at the bridge, which is located about 100 kilometres northeast of Thunder Bay, Ont.
The estimated duration of the closure is “uncertain” with police noting it could be “possibly days.”
Nipigon Mayor Richard Harvey says transport trucks in the area are already backing up and the township is opening up community centres to give those stranded a place to stay.
Ontario heralded the opening of the Nipigon River Bridge – the province’s first cable-stayed bridge – in late November, when the westbound portion of the structure opened to two-way traffic.
Work on the eastbound lanes continues, and is slated for completion in 2017.
Photo via CBC News
