The Sir Ambrose Shea lift bridge in Placentia has added surveillance to ensure drivers of vehicles over the posted 13,000-kilogram weight limit keep below the boundary imposed by government for the safety of all.
A video surveillance camera has been installed at the bridge to keep an eye out 24 hours a day to ensure the weight restriction is upheld.
“In light of evidence that some commercial vehicles have ignored the posted weight restrictions, the Provincial government is changing its enforcement efforts,” said Transportation and Works minister Tom Hedderson. “It is disappointing that some drivers have taken risks, but I am confident our new measures will prevent further incidents while the bridge is being repaired.”
The Department of Transportation and Works has installed a 24-hour video surveillance camera at the bridge that is capable of licence plate recognition for enforcement purposes. Service NL will continue to perform spot checks of vehicle weights at the bridge while repairs take place.
“Public safety is our primary concern and it has become apparent that increased surveillance is necessary in order to enforce this posted weight restriction,” said Service NL minister Paul Davis. “Through the use of a surveillance camera system in tandem with our other enforcement efforts, government will ensure the safety of the bridge for the travelling public while repairs are underway.”
Repair work is ongoing, and once completed, the load capacity of the bridge will be restored. The bridge is safe for public use provided the load restriction is observed.
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