Another bridge in the heart of Chatham is seeing weight restrictions.
CK engineers have imposed a 10-tonne limit for three-axle trucks on the Fifth St. bridge. The restriction also puts a 25-tonne limit on trucks with five or more axles.
Director of Engineering and Transportation Adam Sullo says, while the move won't be as intrusive as the Parry Bridge restrictions, they're trying to educate the public.
"It shouldn't have the same impact as the low post we have on the Parry Bridge. We're trying to make sure we're signing this as people come into Chatham," he says. "There will be a sign on the bridge itself, and there should be digital signage on Grand Ave. by the end of the week."
Sullo adds major rehabilitation needs to take place on the bridge. They're currently weighing the options of performing these repairs, or completely replacing the structure.
"There could be an extensive rehabilitation, but if you get to the point where you're patching everything, it's more cost effective to replace. We don't know which option is going to come forward yet," says Sullo.
Around 9,500 vehicles cross the bridge on a daily basis, with 2% of them being heavy trucks. Once plans are ironed out, Sullo expects construction to begin in 2017.
