Journal staff
Drivers are being reminded that the U.S.-bound (westbound) span of the Blue Water Bridge will be closed for maintenance, beginning July 5 through to October.
“This project will be managed by the Federal Bridge Corporation Limited (FBCL,) and address required maintenance on the westbound BWB span connecting Point Edward, Ontario and Port Huron, MI.,” a news release noted.
As a result, the Canada-bound (eastbound) span will become bi-directional and remain operational during construction, the Federal Bridge Corporation Ltd. said.
The north lane will be open to traffic from Canada to the U.S. across the bridge, and the south and middle lanes will be open to traffic from the U.S. to Canada. All of the toll lanes will remain open as traffic approaches the toll plazas at each end of the bridge.
“The rehabilitation work is not expected to have significant traffic disruptions to travellers or to the local community,” the FBCL added.
Drivers should note that dedicated lanes for commuter pass holders and buses cannot be accommodated, and wide loads will be restricted to less than 11 feet.
“The Blue Water Bridge is an essential economic link between Canada and the United States,” the FBCL added. “This important project continues the commitment between the Federal Bridge Corporation Limited (FBCL) and the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) to maintain and preserve the safety and reliability of the Blue Water Bridge.”
The westbound span, also known as is the first, or original Blue Water Bridge, officially opened in 1938, followed by the second span in 1997.