Replacement for bridge in Lantz expected to be completed by fall

Residents of Lantz, N.S., are one step closer to getting a replacement for abridgethat was closed three years ago.

A contract has been awarded to Dexter Constructionto replace the one-lane structure with a two-lane bridge.

The company submitted a bid of $5,571,844 for the project.

Hydes Bridge on Highway 277was closed in November 2019 for safety reasons. The bridge spans the Shubenacadie River.

Detour

Adetour via Dutch Settlement Road, Elmsdale Road and Trunk 2 has been in place since the bridge was closed.

John A. MacDonald, the MLA for Hants East, said construction of the new bridge is scheduled to start this June and should be completed by fall.

He said the existing bridge will be removed and a foundation for a new double-lane bridge will have to be put in place.

Because of the river, environmental concerns such as spawning season have affected the timing of the work, MacDonald said.

He said the closure has been a major issue for residents and local businesses.

"Once the new bridge is in, it'll be better and safer for people," he said.

He said getting the project off the ground was affected by provincial budget priorities and the availability of workers.

MacDonald said he and area residents are looking forward to being able tocut20 minutes off their drive.