If you’ve driven to or from Victoria and Duncan, you’ve probably crossed this city’s twin silver bridges
Since the summer, commuters who use the bridges have likely noticed signs of construction surrounding them.
According to a ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure announcement made last week, the safety upgrades being made to the silver bridges are now complete, lengthening the bridges’ lifespan for years.
“Safety is always our top priority,” said Claire Trevena, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.
“These important upgrades will increase the bridge’s safety and lifespan for people living and working in the Cowichan Valley. I would like to thank everyone in the area, including the Cowichan Tribes, for their patience and support while work was underway on this project.”
Upgrades to the 77 metre long side-by-side bridges began in late July, and included removing corrosion from the bridges’ steel framework and applying new paint.
During the process, the bridges were “shrink wrapped” to contain debris and protect the nearby area and river that flows underneath.
Earlier, in 2017, seismic upgrades were added to the northbound and southbound bridge spans.
According to Transportation and Infrastructure, minor cleanup can be expected until mid-January 2019. However, the majority of traffic and pedestrian patterns have returned to normal.
“Cowichan Tribes is pleased to support infrastructure initiatives that address safety for all the community,” said Chief William Seymour, Cowichan Tribes.
