P.E.I.'s Covehead Bridge to remain closed extra week

The Covehead Bridge in P.E.I.'s National Park, which has been closed for three weeks, is staying closed to all traffic for an extra week, officials say.

• Covehead Bridge reopening delayed by a week

The bridge closure has been extended until Oct.3, Parks Canada said late Tuesday in a written release. The bridge, built in 1965, has been getting a makeover for the past year at a cost of $5.8 million.

"This extension is required to facilitate weather-dependent construction procedures to be conducted," the release stated.

Crews are paving the driving lanes and applying water-proofing.

'Patience and support'

The workcaps off improvements, including a safety barrier to prevent daredevils from jumping off the bridge, as well as a wider sidewalk for pedestrians and cyclists.

A 17-minute detour around the closed bridge between Brackley and Dalvay is currently in place.

Parks Canada said it "appreciates the patience and support of residents and visitors during this construction period."

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