The province says it has completed upgrade work on the Hagwilget Bridge on Highway 62 just north of New Hazelton.
The $5.2 million project included the replacement of the structural steel components on the bridge’s main towers and superstructure. While area First Nations have had a Bulkley River crossing there since at least the 1800’s, the current design was built in 1932.
“Hagwilget Bridge is a key transportation link in this region, not only for commercial traffic, but for families as well as tourists visiting this spectacular part of British Columbia,” said Transportation Minister Todd Stone in a statement “The bridge’s heritage value is also an important part of B.C. history and upgrading the structural components will ensure it remains safe and reliable for many years to come.”
The ministry says the single-lane steel suspension bridge is a busy crossing for commercial vehicles, residents and tourists travelling over the scenic Bulkley River Canyon, providing access to the Kispiox Valley.
A number of upgrades have been done on the bridge, including a project in 2013 to sandblast, clean, and coat the non-galvanized components on the bridge.