The M.D. of Bonnyville is taking the first step toward replacing one of its oldest bridges by approving funding for an engineering study to determine how and where a new crossing should be built.

At its July 14 meeting, council approved reallocating $60,000 from the municipality’s remaining 2024 Bridge Engineering budget to complete a replacement study for Lessard Bridge (BF9595), a structure that has served the area for nearly a century.

A bridge nearing the end of its life

According to administration, Lessard Bridge is now 96 years old and has reached the end of its useful service life.

While the bridge remains in use, it is load restricted, requires significant ongoing maintenance and no longer fits well within today’s transportation network. Administration noted that the steep approaches make paving difficult, and nearly $1 million has already been spent over the past decade to keep the bridge operational.

Even with those investments, another $2 million in maintenance could be required over the next five to 15 years if the bridge remains in service.

Looking at the best location

Rather than simply replacing the bridge in its current location, the engineering study will examine two possible corridors before any long-term decisions are made.

The study will compare the existing alignment along Range Road 452 with a potential new alignment along Range Road 450 that would better align with Fort Kent.

Administration says the work will help determine the preferred location, estimate construction costs and identify any land that may need to be acquired before the project can move forward.

Planning years ahead

Officials stressed that replacing the bridge will be a complex, multi-year project, making advance planning essential.

Once the study is complete, the municipality expects to begin discussions with affected landowners, pursue funding opportunities and engage the public before any construction decisions are made.

The engineering study is expected to cost $60,000, to be funded from the unused balance of the municipality’s 2024 Bridge Engineering capital budget, leaving sufficient funds within the existing allocation.