Macdonald Bridge Big Lift re-decking to drag into new year

Deck replacement work on the Macdonald Bridge will not be completed by the end of December as scheduled.

Halifax Harbour Bridge officials now expect this part of the Big Lift project to be completed by late January or early February.

There are 10 deck sections that still have to be replaced, all on the Halifax side of the span over military property. Those sections are being handled by land-based cranes instead of taken up from a barge in the harbour.

"It is significantly more complicated than when working over the water and is greatly affected by high winds," said Jon Eppel, the project manager for the Big Lift.

The reopening of sidewalk and bike lanes has also been delayed until late March, so the HHB's shuttle system will continue.

"We appreciate that people are eager to return to walking or biking across the bridge. If possible we will open the sidewalk and bike lane sooner, as soon as it is safe to do so," said Eppel.

Bridge officials insist the overall project is still on track to be completed for the fall 2017.

Nightly closures will continue until the job is completed. Once all the decks are replaced there should only be four more weekend closures.

The Macdonald Bridge will be open for the Christmas and New Year's weekends.