Dartmouth Pedestrian Bridge Closed for Over a Month with No Reopening Timeline
A pedestrian bridge in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, remains closed after structural damage from a car crash. Residents and politicians criticize the lack of safe alternatives and an uncertain repair timeline.
A pedestrian bridge connecting the Woodlawn and Penhorn Lake communities in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, has been closed for more than a month following structural damage caused by a vehicle collision. The incident occurred on the weekend of August 22, impacting a critical crossing over Highway 111.
The Department of Public Works reported that the crash damaged a steel structure leading to the stairway, causing a support beam and its foundation to lean. In response, the department has hired a consulting engineer to assess the structure and determine necessary repair options. However, as of now, there is no publicly available timeline from the province regarding when the bridge will reopen.
NDP Leader Claudia Chender stated she has been informed that repairs could take several months. This uncertainty has raised concerns among local residents who rely on the bridge for daily travel. Amanda Lowery, a resident, noted that her children previously used the bridge for trips to Lake Banook but are now forced to use "dicey" routes through Tacoma Centre or wait for drives.
Critics argue that the closure highlights broader issues with active transportation infrastructure. Chender pointed out long-standing accessibility concerns regarding strollers and winter snow clearing on the bridge. She also expressed worry that the lack of safe crossing options increases the risk of pedestrians attempting to run across the four-lane highway.
Public Works Minister Fred Tilley and PC MLA Tim Halman were not made available for interviews regarding the situation. The community hopes for completion by the new year, but officials have not confirmed this target.