The Dewdney Slough Bridge is not collapsing, although it will be closed for several days.
According to a release, issued by the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, Highway 7 is closed at the bridge, located eight miles east of Mission, because of an issue with one of the bridge’s wooden support piles.
An initial assessment by the ministry’s bridge engineers has revealed that the top portion of one of the support piles on the eastbound side had weakened, and the bridge settled onto the strong section of the pile.
“There is no danger of the bridge collapsing,” according to the release.
Engineers are currently assessing the bridge superstructure to plan for repairs as quickly as possible.
Presently, there is no estimated time for reopening, but motorists are advised the bridge could be closed for a couple of days. The public will be notified of the estimated time for reopening once determined and can check for updates at: drivebc.ca.
In the meantime, motorists should detour via Highway 1, using either Highway 11 via Mission from the west or Highway 9 via Agassiz from the east.
The ministry apologizes for any inconvenience and thanks motorists for their patience while the assessment and repairs are undertaken.
