DIDSBURY - Anyone driving across the temporary bridge into or out of Didsbury on Highway 582 will have to be careful to avoid several potholes that have developed as the weather has warmed up.
The main bridge across Rosebud Creek was found to be unsafe back in October and was shut down due to "structural deficiencies." The temporary bridge was erected shortly after just beside the old bridge and has been used since.
"The recent wet snow, combined with daytime temperatures that are above zero are letting moisture into the road and the freeze-thaw cycle is causing the road to break up in some places," said Bob McManus, spokesperson for the Ministry of Transportation.
McManus said that maintenance crews are aware of the issues and have been patching up the road as best they can as required.
"The problem will continue to persist throughout the spring and maintenance crews will continue to react to it," he said. "Once warmer temperatures are here and hot mixed asphalt is available, the plan is to do a more robust permanent repair to strengthen the entire detour," he said. "We anticipate that this will occur in May, but exact timing is weather dependent."
The replacement bridge has been designed and, weather permitting, the new permanent bridge will open to traffic in the fall of 2018, he said.
In a press release from the Town of Didsbury, CAO Harold Northcott cautioned drivers to use good judgement and reduce speed when travelling across the temporary bridge until repairs can be made.
An alternate route is south on Highway 2A, turning at 15th Avenue.
