MIDDLESBORO BRIDGE REPLACEMENT

PROJECT UPDATE  |  JUNE 20, 2024

Overview: Middlesboro Bridge Replacement Project.

The Middlesboro Bridge Replacement project, once completed will be a welcome addition towards enhancing our infrastructure. The bridge was destroyed in the 2021 Atmospheric River, impacting an important community transportation route. This project includes critical activities such as pile driving, construction of the bridge both above and below ground, and the installation of a comprehensive drainage system. Additional improvements include the creation of a multi-use pathway for pedestrians and strategic riprap placement for structural integrity.

A detailed engineering proposal and cost estimate for the replacement of the Middlesboro Bridge was submitted in October 2022 to the province. In June 2023, the BC Ministry of Emergency Management & Climate Readiness approved $9,600,000 in funding to replace the Middlesboro Bridge on Voght Street. The project is currently on schedule for completion in Fall of 2024 and is on budget.

Bridge Construction enters Phase 2B

Author: Flood Mitigation Team

The Middlesboro Bridge Replacement project has progressed into Phase 2B. This phase includes several critical construction activities for the bridge and surrounding infrastructure. Key tasks in this phase include the driving of piles on both the north and south approaches, as well as the construction of the bridge both above and below ground. 

Additionally, the project involves the placement of gravel, roadway paving, and embankment filling to strengthen and stabilize the area. Strategic riprap placement will be implemented to protect the structural integrity of the bridge against future environmental events. 

As part of the improvements, the central pier and old bridge abutments will be demolished and removed. A comprehensive drainage system will also be installed to ensure effective water management. To enhance civic infrastructure, a multi-use pathway will be constructed, providing pedestrians with a safe and accessible route across the bridge. 

The Middlesboro Bridge Replacement project remains on budget and on schedule for completion in the fall.  

Current + Forecasted Construction

June 2024 Activities: 

• Pile driving has been completed on both the north and south ends of the bridge. Eight piles have been excavated and cut to their final elevations, with rebar cages installed, and concrete infill poured. Mud Slabs (non-structural) have also been formed and concrete has been poured. 
• Rebar installation of the reinforcing steel for the south abutment has begun. 
• Prefabrication of abutment formwork panels has been completed, and installation of these panels on the south abutment is currently underway. 

July 2024 Forecasted Activities: 

• Completion of the installation of the reinforcing steel for the south abutment.
• Finalize the south abutment formwork and proceed with pouring the south abutment concrete. Once the concrete has set, the form panels will be reconditioned and transported to the north side. Backfill will then be placed around the south abutment.
• Construction of the north abutment will begin, starting with reinforcing steel installation.
• Demolition of the old south abutment will take place, and a crane ramp will be constructed in preparation for the girder installation.

The Flood Mitigation Team extends heartfelt thanks to all Rightsholders and Residents, City of Merritt staff, the Province of British Columbia, and all contractors involved in advancing Middlesboro Bridge Replacement project. Your patience, contributions, hard work and support is very much appreciated as we move this important milestone for our community closer to completion.