Blackfriars Bridge may remain closed to cars and pedestrians for years.
The civic works committee rejected a more expensive plan Monday that could have seen the historic bridge reopen temporarily before long term repairs are made.
Seeing a multi-million dollar repair bill on the horizon, the committee wouldn’t endorse adding to that bill in order to temporarily reopen Blackfriars Bridge.
After a detailed inspection found severe corrosion has made the bridge too dangerous, City engineer John Braam told the committee he is relieved an inspection was ordered.
“I count my lucky stars that we all as a committee stuck to our guns in terms of ensuring that inspection took place,” says Braam
An environmental assessment must be done for any repairs, but it won't be finished until the end of 2014. That could put repairs and reopening off until 2016 or beyond.
If council ultimately chooses to repair the 138-year-old heritage bridge, costs could range between $2 million and $3 million.
The bridge could be temporarily reopened to either pedestrians or vehicles during the environmental assessment, if taxpayers pay another $260,000 or $540,000.
But the mayor's support of paying to reopen to pedestrians fell flat with other committee members.
“It is unreasonable to spend additional dollars to keep the walkway open and I won't be supporting that,” says councillor Matt Brown.
Ward councillor Judy Bryant and Mayor Joe Fontana intend to fight for a temporary reopening on behalf of the thousands of residents who live east of the river and walk or bike downtown.
“It would bring incredible hardship to the people around there that do not have cars or quick modes of transportation,” says Bryant.
“I think a good compelling argument can be made for at least keeping it open for pedestrians,” says Fontana.
The Blackfriars Bridge debate will heat up again next Tuesday night, when council will decide which road to take.
