Veterans Memorial Bridge reopens to all traffic after loose bolts cause restrictions
The bridge providing a vital link between Happy Valley-Goose Bay and southern Labrador reopened Wednesday morning after being restricted to light vehicles traffic while it was being repaired.
The Transportation and Works department said Veterans Memorial Bridge was reopened after repairs and a full inspection were completed Wednesday.
The bridge was restricted to light traffic under five tons while repairs to bolts on the bridge were completed. Some workers have told CBC News that the bolts have been coming loose.
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It's the only way for traffic to cross the Churchill River, providing access for passengers and transport trucks not only to southern Labrador, but also on to Newfoundland.
Until the bridge was deemed safe, only pedestrians and vehicles that weigh under five tonnes were allowed to cross.
While that created a difficult situation for transport trucks that often use the bridge, it is also a headache for Nalcor, since Veterans Memorial Bridge is frequently crossed by vehicles taking workers to and from the Muskrat Falls construction site.
On Tuesday night, a busload of workers had to walk across the bridge and board another bus on the other side. Many workers were supposed to be flying out Tuesday night, but flights were delayed as workers were brought across and taken to the airport.
