“This new bridge structure will help make for safer passage on one of our province’s main highways,” Minister Vessey said. “We are pleased that the project was completed in time for visitors to begin touring our Island for the season.”

The $950,000 project opened this afternoon. A final asphalt seal will be placed during the next two weeks that will cause minor interruptions to traffic.

The original bridge was built in 1968. After structural damage was discovered during one of the department’s routine road patrols, work began in February on the replacement structure following a community information session in Hunter River.

Six other bridges are being replaced in 2014-15. They include structures in Greek River, Augustine Cove, Clinton, Rocky Point, Souris and Montague.

Since 2007, the provincial government has replaced or completed major repairs on 51 bridges throughout Prince Edward Island, for a total investment of more than $60 million.