Inspection finds International Bridge to be in 'good to fair' condition

The Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge recently underwent a fracture critical inspection of the entire span.

A news release issued today by the International Bridge Administration (IBA) states that the 10-day long inspection process found the structure to be in "good to fair" condition.

"The IBA has a track record of outstanding bridge maintenance," said IBA bridge engineer Karl Hansen in the release. "Our staff is dedicated to protecting the public investment in the bridge. We repair any structural deficiencies, no matter how minor, found during these inspections."

The bridge was inspected by a team of engineering experts from the lead firm of Hardesty and Hanover of Okemos, Mich., and Canadian partner firm WSP Canada Group Limited of Mississauga, Ont.

Minor items noted by the inspectors, such as touch-up paint work in the arches below the bridge deck, will be included in scheduled maintenance for 2021.

"The operation and maintenance of the International Bridge is totally self-funded, primarily through bridge tolls," the release states. "It is not subsidized by any state, provincial, or federal government entity."