THUNDER BAY -- The Progressive Conservative Party's transportation critic called the malfunction of the Nipigon River Bridge so soon after its construction a "grave concern" as he challenged the competency of responsible ministers.
Michael Harris was shocked to learn of technical bridge less than a month-and-a-half after it was officially opened. A forensic investigation has begun to determine what caused a bolt to break on Sunday, which split an expansion joint and elevated the bridge around 60 centimetres.
The portion that has been constructed represents more than half of the $106-million construction and Harris questioned not only whether Ontarians are getting good value for their investment but whether Premier Kathleen Wynne and Minister of Transportation Steve Del Duca can be personally counted upon to keep travellers safe.
"The premier and the ministers -- ultimately, it lands on Steven Del Duca, the Minister of Transportation -- owe people an explanation for the failure of the Nipigon River Bridge, only 42 days after opening," Harris said.
"Given the questions around yesterday's failures, motorists will understandably have questions about this minister's ability to ensure their safety."
Recognizing the Nipigon River Bridge's importance to Ontario and Canada's transportation infrastructure, Harris called on the government to consider alternatives in the interest of public safety.
"I've heard in the past people have long called for something to replace the existing bridge and even to the tune of which there be a secondary route. Those are the questions that are being asked," he said.
"Thankfully, one lane is now open but I'd be nervous putting my family in a van to go over the bridge until I have further information that it's sound, secure and that this won't happen again."
Minister of Northern Development and Mines Michael Gravelle defended his government, insisting he trusted in the professionalism of on-site engineers and Ministry of Transportation staff.
"Safety is absolutely the number one consideration," Gravelle said.
"There is absolutely no possibility the Ministry of Transportation would be moving forward with allowing traffic on the bridge unless it was absolutely 100 per cent confirmed that it was indeed safe. For the critic to make those comments strikes me as unfortunate."
