ST. STEPHEN (GNB) – Repairs to the Maxwell Crossing Covered Bridge, near St. Stephen, are underway.

“We are proceeding with the restoration of this historic covered bridge,” said Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Claude Williams. “Department staff will carry out the work which is expected to be completed in about 14 weeks.”

The repairs to the bridge include installing additional supports to stabilize the structure, replacing truss and cross members, tension rods, roofing, and siding, reinforcing wooden members, as well as carrying out environmental protection related to the Dennis Stream waterway.

“We have always recognized the historic value of the Maxwell Crossing Covered Bridge,” said Tourism, Heritage and Culture Minister Trevor Holder. “Covered bridges are an important heritage resource and a tourism draw that contributes to the character of the province. We are pleased that the time was taken to investigate the most cost-effective way to repair this structure.”

The bridge sustained significant damage in a single vehicle accident on Jan. 21, 2013. The vehicle caused damage to the downstream wall of the structure, destroying many of the main supports and placing it at risk of collapse. The bridge was closed at that time until further notice. Local residents were directed to detour either north or south via Route 3 or Route 750.

“Residents of the area will soon have their bridge back in operation and taxpayers will benefit from the savings we have realized through the insurance agreement,” Williams said.

As part of the negotiations, the department commissioned an engineering report by Eastern Designers Ltd. of Fredericton which outlined the design plan and specifications for the work required to repair the bridge. The report served as a guide to a final agreement.
 
Due to the cost of repairs, Williams said, the department considered demolishing the covered bridge or replacing it with a modern, less-expensive span.

The insurance will cover damages caused by the accident totalling $310,000, but excludes other improvements to increase the bridge's load capacity to 15 tonnes. The total cost of the project, including added improvements, is about $350,000.

Built in 1910, the Maxwell Crossing Covered Bridge is located four kilometers north of St. Stephen on the Maxwell Crossing Road.

06-11-13