A remarkable act of engineering is expected this summer in rebuilding the Marina Park overpass, according to Red River Ward’s city councillor.
Tom Jones Corporation is likely be awarded the $1.3-million contract at Monday night’s council meeting, which Brian McKinnon points out will include a crane, maybe more.
“Obviously have to close the road for a bit. But this actual removal of that overpass is going to be quite the engineering feat, so I’m going to be down there watching it myself,” hopes the city councillor.
He speculates the work to refurbish the steel structure could take place in the city owned Pagoda parking lot.
“It’s all part of the Renew Thunder Bay, and the essential infrastructure. Water Street is going to be one of the image routes, so we want to make sure that is addressed, and the cores are being looked at,” points out McKinnon.
As for any financial help from other levels of government, the city councillor says that could happen, but isn’t sure right now. He’s also wondering how the finished work will look like, comparing it to other overpasses he’s seen.
“Like the one in Calgary, which I’ve gone over. It’s a different kind of structure up there, it’s not enclosed. Mind you, that one cost $25-million, maybe that’s why they’re going to redo this one as is,” muses the Red River Councillor.
He acknowledges concerns with having an open concept, due to people possibly jumping off or throwing things from the new one. McKinnon adds the current bridge is in bad need of work, especially with the steel itself, as well as issues of cleanliness.
