By Charles Lefebvre

Finlay Bridge open again for vehicle traffic

Jul 20, 2017 | 4:57 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB — Damage from an oversized vehicle prompted the city to close Finlay Bridge to traffic for almost a full day, but it has now reopened.

The city’s municipal works department received the report Wednesday morning. An examination of the bridge found six overhead street lights that suffered damage.

“At the time, we completed an initial investigation of the lights, and today, we were working on a bit more thorough of an investigation, as well as going in and doing some repairs,” said Michael Knight, an intermediate municipal engineer with the city.

The bridge closed at 8 p.m. Wednesday night.

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The bridge was reopened to vehicle traffic by 3:30 p.m. Thursday afternoon, but was closed to vehicle traffic in both directions to allow crews to work.

“No vehicles on there is obviously easier,” said Knight. “As well, the lights are kind of in the centre above the roadway, so there’s no opportunity for vehicles to go around workers in the roadway.”

Knight adds the incident serves as a reminder to drivers to be aware of the height of their vehicle. The bridge has a height limit of 4.4. metres.

“Oversized loads going through the city do need a permit, and anyone who has a large vehicle and going through any underpasses should take care and look for the signs to make sure they’re not oversized,” he said.

Knight says crews will complete more in-depth repairs of the bridge next week, prompting another closure. The bridge remains structurally safe.