There's not much physical action happening, but work on the L.O. Stonehouse Walking Bridge construction project is underway.
The contractor began site preparation on January 8 and will be working through the removal of the remaining spans of the existing bridge next week. Construction is expected to be complete by mid-July ahead of the Wallaceburg Antique Motor and Boat Outing (WAMBO).
"The L.O. Stonehouse Walking Bridge in the Community of Wallaceburg serves as one of the main pedestrian crossings over the Sydenham River," said Marissa Mascaro, Chatham-Kent's Director of Engineering.
In a release, the municipality explained that much of the work being done in the winter months is being done behind the scenes.
"There is lots of work happening in the background, as work continues on shop drawings and fabrication of materials off-site in preparation for installations, which are planned to begin in May," the release said.
Throughout construction, Sydenham River is expected to remain open and passable. The contractor is coordinating their work to maintain a navigational opening through the construction area at all times.
Coloured lighting, similar to what was put in on the Third Street Bridge in Chatham, will be installed on the Walking Bridge. While the main construction of the bridge should be finished by mid-summer, several additional steps need to be taken for the lighting system. Work on the lights is expected to last through the summer with a target completion date in early fall.
"Our project team is working hard to get this important project completed and we look forward to the community’s excitement when the pedestrian bridge reopens." said Mascaro.
Updates for all construction projects in Chatham-Kent can be found here.