Truman Bridge repair following Oct. damage from truck hauling logs at $800K

Damage sustained to the Truman Bridge. Image: M.D. of Bonnyville.

M.D. of Bonnyville council approved repairing the Truman Bridge to its pre-collision condition, to a maximum cost of $800,000, after the Jan. 28 regular meeting.

Located on Range Road 485, north of Township Road 630, it is used to cross the Beaver River near Goodridge, and has been limited the past couple of months.

On Oct. 26, 2024, a semi hauling logs tried crossing the bridge, causing damage to the structure with the load.

After closing the bridge and bringing higher level inspectors to assess the damage, it has since re-opened, but with a five tonne weight capacity.

Replacements are needed for the two portals (horizontal members only), seven laterals, and 16 cross bracings to restore the bridge’s condition to how it was before the collision.

This restriction will remain in place until the repairs are completed.

According to M.D. figures, an average of 100 vehicles use the bridge a day, and approximately six big trucks.

This project will be funded from the M.D’s Bridge Reserve Fund. Timelines of six months are anticipated for the design, tender, and construction process.

Truman Bridge was originally built in 1946 and is 79 years old.