More vehicles are being allowed to cross a northern B.C. bridge after it was damaged earlier this month by a snowplow.
The B.C. government says while the Kispiox Valley Road Bridge is still under repairs, vehicles that weigh up to 30 tonnes, commercial or otherwise, can safely cross the structure while crews continue permanent repairs which began on Feb. 11.
That day, vehicles no more than eight tonnes were allowed over the bridge out of respect for safety of local residents needing to use it as there's currently no other detour available following the Feb. 4 incident.
Specific closures are expected to continue in that the bridge will be open for 20 minutes to single-lane alternating traffic at the top of every hour, followed by a 40-minute delay.
For example, at 9 a.m., the bridge will be open until 9:20 a.m. before reopening again at 10 a.m. for another 20-minute frame, and will stay open overnight, also to single-lane alternating traffic.
Pedestrian traffic is still open as well, but those that choose to walk are being asked to be cautious near crews and equipment.
"Ministry engineers and crews are working around the clock to reopen the bridge to all traffic as quickly as possible," reads a release from B.C.'s Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
"The permanent repairs are expected to be completed in late February or early March."
The Kispiox Valley Road Bridge is located 15 km north of Hazelton, or about 460 km northwest of Prince George.
Dawson Road Maintenance, the Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine and Emergency Management BC are still working together in providing services that may be needed for residents in the area.
DriveBC has said it's working on trying to clear an alternate route for heavier traffic.
You can also go to their website for more road updates and information.
