Trail and its regional sewer partners – Rossland and Warfield – have decided to move forward with the creation of a pipe bridge to support the regional sewer line.
The approximate $2 million structure is the most affordable option for rerouting the utility line that is currently attached to the closed Old Trail Bridge, which is considered condemned and will likely have to be torn down.
The Regional District of Kootenay Boundary’s sewage committee has agreed to work with Trail on not only attaching its water line to this structure but also connecting a potential pedestrian crossing, which could also serve as an emergency secondary route across the Columbia River.
“It could potentially save lives,” said Trail councillor Robert Cacchioni. “If somebody from this side of the river was in serious condition, they could cross that emergency crossing on a small vehicle like a quad.”
Councillor Gord DeRosa sees the potential project as a real tourist attraction, as it would be one of the longest suspension bridges that would loop the city’s walking trail.
The pipe bridge is slated for construction a few blocks away from the Old Trail Bridge so it will line up with Main Street in East Trail.
The long-term project’s engineering work should be advanced later this year.
