News Release Archive

TRANSPORTATION/PUBLIC WORKS--NEW ACADIA MINES BRIDGE OPENS
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The new Acadia Mines Bridge in Londonderry, Colchester County was
officially opened today by Transportation and Public Works
Minister Don Downe.

"We're pleased to have worked with the community to build a safe,
new bridge that preserves the scenic beauty of the gorge," said
Mr. Downe. "This is an important day for local traffic and
tourists, and the department is proud to have played a major
role."

After consultation with a committee of community members, the
department was able to consider the tourism value of the
structure in its design and construction. He said local residents
are pleased with not only the bridge itself, but with the efforts
to ensure their concerns were addressed.

The bridge was completed at a cost of $240,000. The trusses were
lowered below the bridge deck to maintain a pleasing view for
people crossing over. The old bridge's substructure had been
badly eroded, with winter freeze and thaw cycles adding to the
problem. Repairing the substructure rather than replacing the
entire bridge raised additional safety concerns, would have taken
three months or more to repair and would have cost taxpayers
double the amount of the new bridge, the minister said.

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Contact: Public Affairs and Communications  902-424-8687

         Northern District Office           902-893-5780

trp                     Dec. 17, 1996 - 3:25 p.m.