THUNDER BAY – NEWS – The Ontario Government is working to find out what happened and to get the Nipigon Bridge re-opened.
Steven Del Duca, Ontario’s Minister of Transportation, has issued the following statement:
“As Ontario’s Minister of Transportation, I take the safety of our roads and bridges very seriously. Earlier today, I was informed that due to safety concerns the OPP has closed the Nipigon River Bridge along Highway 11/17.
“MTO engineers are currently on site inspecting the bridge to identify the areas of concern and determine the measures necessary to ensure the bridge can reopen safely to traffic as soon as possible.
“Understanding the major impact this closure has on traffic and local communities along the Trans Canada Highway, I have spoken with Minister Michael Gravelle and Mayor Richard Harvey and assured them that MTO will do everything they can do to restore the bridge quickly, while also making sure that the safety of the travelling public remains of paramount importance. I will also speak to Minister Gravelle following his visit to the site on Monday morning. As the local MPP for this community, he has demonstrated tremendous leadership during this challenging time.
“MTO is working closely with the OPP and municipalities along the corridor to ensure that everyone has the information they need.
“I would like to thank affected travellers, municipalities and First Nations communities for their patience as we work to safely reopen the bridge as quickly as possible.
“Area community centres, including the Nipigon Community Centre (1-807-887-3585), are open for travellers on Highway 11/17 in need of emergency lodging assistance.
“MTO will continue to provide regular updates to the public as information becomes available. For the latest information on highway closures, the public can call 511, MTO’s Road Information Line or check www.Ontario.ca/511<http://www.ontario.ca/511>.”
