MEDIA RELEASE (City of Owen Sound):

For immediate release: June 25 2010:  9th Street Bridge Replacement Update – Construction to Commence

Starting June 25th 2010, preparations for the reconstruction of the 9th Street Bridge and the connecting streets in the immediate area of the bridge on each side of the river will commence. The limits of construction are from 2nd Avenue West to 1st Avenue East on 9th Street including the intersection of 1st Avenue West at 9th Street West.

Starting June 25th, Hydro One will be making preparations to remove the overhead electrical circuits spanning the river. They will be installing new poles and plan to complete

the electrical work on June 27th. Customers affected by electrical interruptions between 6 AM and 10 AM on Sunday June 27 have been notified. Additional work will be ongoing throughout the last week of June including tree removal and mobilization of materials and equipment to the site. Short-term temporary lane and full road closures are expected during this time.

On July 5th, 2010, E.C King Contracting will close the 9th Street Bridge and 1st Avenue West intersection for the duration of the construction project. The new 9th Street Bridge is expected to reopen in November 2010. All vehicle traffic in the area will be directed to use the alternate routes and posted detours. The City of Owen Sound will temporarily allow two-way traffic on 1st Avenue West during construction. Public Works staff will be installing new signage to reflect this change on July 5th . Large trucks and busses will not be able to use the street until construction has been completed this fall. Additional parking has been created on 2nd

Avenue West south of 8th Street West for access to the public library.

For additional information, please contact Chris Webb, Manager of Engineering Services at 519-376-4530 or cwebb@owensound.ca.