UPDATED JUNE 29, 2020 - As of June 29, 2020, the Lessard Bridge remains closed to all traffic. Infrastructure Services staff are working with a bridge engineer to determine how much damage has been caused to the structure and what repairs will need to be done. Updates on the status of the bridge will continue to be posted on Facebook and the M.D.’s website.
MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF BONNYVILLE MEDIA RELEASE
Lessard Bridge remains closed to all traffic
High water levels still a danger
June 15, 2020 – The Lessard Bridge on Range Road 452 remains closed to all traffic this week.
According to modeling from Alberta Environment and Parks, the Beaver River, which flows under the iconic yellow bridge, is about 2.5 metres higher than it usually is. While the flow hit its peak levels this weekend, the water remains extremely high.
The M.D.’s Infrastructure Services Department (ISD) is waiting for the water to recede to see what kind of damage the fast-moving water has done to the bridge’s abutments. Over the weekend, ISD staff placed rocks along the shoreline on the south end to help reduce erosion.
“Our bridge consultant is monitoring the water levels,” said ISD General Manager, Abid Malik. “As soon as they can inspect it and determine if any repairs need to be done, we will have a better idea of when we can open the bridge.”
The bridge will remain closed to all traffic, including pedestrian traffic until further notice.
Updates will be posted on the M.D.’s website and Facebook page.