Thunder Bay

CN Rail starts repairs on burned James Street bridge

CN Rail says it has started 'initial work' repairing the James Street bridge in Thunder Bay, a month after it was damaged by fire.

Walkway, handrail, deck material and timber piles being repaired

It’s still unclear when the James Street bridge will reopen to vehicle and pedestrian traffic as CN Rail awaits a final consultants’ report about the damage caused by last month’s fire. (CBC)

CN Rail says it has started “initial work” repairing the James Street bridge in Thunder Bay, a month after it was damaged by fire.

The railway is repairing the walkway, handrail, deck material and timber piles, according to a spokesperson.

It’s still unclear when the bridge will reopen to vehicle and pedestrian traffic as the railway awaits a final consultants’ report about the damage caused by last month’s fire.

CN Rail is scheduled to meet next week to give an update on plans for the bridge to officials from Thunder Bay and Fort William First Nation.

Meanwhile, Thunder Bay Fire and Rescue Chief John Hay is warning pedestrians not to try any shortcuts across the Kam River.

“We've sent out our messages to stay off the ice,” Hay said. “It certainly will be an attractive shortcut for that, and we hope that people use a lot of common sense and do not — do not — try that shortcut.”