Red Deer’s CPR Bridge needs more than a new coat of paint and minor repairs, but exactly what it needs has yet to be determined.
The historic bridge, built in 1907, was originally slated for a $3.7 million repair and paint job as part of the 2016 capital budget.
Wayne Gustafson, engineering services manager for the City of Red Deer, said work was postponed when an evaluation in late spring suggested more work was required to parts like abutments, piers and some substructure components.
A detailed engineering review is now underway to identify what needs to be done soon and to develop a full work plan for ongoing maintenance.
“The idea would be that we take the time to make sure we know exactly the work plan that is needed, and how best to roll that out. Some of that work will likely start next year and into 2018,” Gustafson said on Thursday.
“There’s nothing that’s emergency-related that has to be done right now.”
The city converted the structure into a pedestrian bridge in 1992 after CPR donated the old train bridge to the city a few years earlier. In 1993, the bridge was designated a provincial historic site.
A 2013 report identified structural deficiencies that could contribute to future problems and public safety issues. An assessment in 2014 indicated the presence of lead paint. Paint on the supporting structure and steel trusses are flaking and falling into the river potentially affecting the overall health of the river.
Gustafson said money already approved for the bridge would be used next year to start work that needs to get done first. Council will have to approve further funding during 2018 budget discussions. The engineering review won’t be complete for council’s consideration in the 2017 budget.
Once work begins, the bridge will likely be closed at various times during repairs, he said.
“The intention is to keep it open and functional as much as possible, which I think can be done for the most part.”
szielinski@www.reddeeradvocate.com