5th Street Bridge Project Update

In the coming days, the white plastic containment system on the bridge will come down completing the coating phase of the project in the classic green lead free paint. The focus will then shift to the final phase of rehabilitation work - deck repairs.

Unfortunately, as a result of labour shortages, the project schedule has been extended into the first week of January for completion.  An issue across many sectors, a shortage of specialized workers has affected the project’s progress, and prevented additional measures to potentially make up the time, such as working double shifts, or working 24 hours per day.  The contractor has so far only been able to maintain enough crew to work 7 days a week, 12 hours per day.  The City continues to explore options with the contractor to expedite the work.

Equipment malfunctions, scaffolding install, and labour shortages have all been contributing factors to the delays throughout the project.  The factors could not have been foreseen during the planning phase of the project.  All schedule delays are being actively managed with the contractor.

Although the timeline has been extended, the project remains within the approved budget.Included in the contract for this work was a provision for compensation owed to the City if the project runs over-schedule due to the actions of the contractor.

The current single lane alternating traffic pattern will continue until project completion, scheduled for the first week of January, and will then return to normal pre-project condition.

With the shift to deck repairs on the bridge, the temporary walkway will be removed and sidewalk access will reopen for pedestrians.  Pedestrian access will be maintained at all times across the bridge.

SHOP LOCAL!

A reminder that Downtown Courtenay is open for business during the 5th Street Bridge Project. Downtown has so much to offer with a wide array of shops, boutiques, arts & culture and restaurants. With so many businesses, finding what you need is easy.  Downtown can be accessed several ways including using 17th Street Bridge, Condensory Bridge or by crossing the 5th Street Bridge with single lane alternating traffic.