THUNDER BAY — Over a year after it was taken out of service, the pedestrian bridge over Water Street to Marina Park officially reopened to the public on Monday.
The overpass's steel components had experienced significant corrosion.
It required repairs that were initially estimated to cost $1.3 million, but city council ultimately was asked to approve an additional $500,000 because the deterioration was worse than expected.
City project engineer Mike Vogrig says that although the final cost is still being tabulated, the entire $500,000 will not be required.
Users of the bridge likely won't notice much of a difference, Vogrig said.
"When it comes down to it, the structure is still basically the same. They just replaced or repaired parts that were in a state of disrepair and put it back in place. Now it's ready to be used again."
He said the next major rehabilitation shouldn't be required for at least 25 years.
City staff say the overpass is well-used, especially during big events in Marina Park.
