Saskatchewan bridge demolished with controlled explosions

Portions of a Saskatoon bridge were successfully demolished using explosives. On Jan. 10 at 9 a.m. the two south spans of the old Traffic Bridge were brought down after strategic cuts and explosive charges.

The demolition was managed by Graham Commuter Partners (GCP), through their contract with licensed blasting specialist Rakowski Cartage & Wrecking Ltd. Saskatoon’s Police Service and Fire Department patrolled the area surrounding Traffic Bridge to ensure public safety.

Once the debris from the demolition is cleared, construction of the south portion of the new bridge can begin. GCP is hopeful that residents will start to see the first new southern span being erected by this summer. The remaining two northern spans of the old bridge will be taken down as construction progresses.

Details on future demolition dates will be shared as they are known. The city thanked residents, especially property owners and tenants within the exclusion zone, for their cooperation during this first phase of demolition. An exclusion zone with a radius of 250 meters from the blasting site was in place about one hour prior to the blast to limit public access and maintain citizen safety.

Property owners located within the exclusion zone were notified in writing by the contractor and provided with safety information, including the message to remain indoors during the demolition. Residents in the exclusion zone, who sign up to receive messages via the city’s NotifyNow notification system, also received notifications about the demolition. Safety officers hired by the contractor, as well as the Saskatoon Police Service and the Saskatoon Fire Department, were on site around the exclusion zone perimeter. The Saskatoon Fire Department was also patrolling the South Saskatchewan River and riverbank to ensure public safety.