Beginning in October of last year, Local 343 members began construction on the new Ste. Agathe Bridge, which will replace the existing bridge that opened in 1960.
The Ste. Agathe Bridge is vital for the small Francophone community of Ste. Agathe in Manitoba. The community relies on the old bridge to connect to Highway 75, which runs from Winnipeg to the United States. Additionally, the bridge serves as an important agricultural route which allows farmers and growers to reach their customers.
The old bridge remains open to continue accessibility in and out of Ste. Agathe, while UBC members work on the replacement. The old Ste. Agathe Bridge, which was completed in 1960, eliminated the need for the ferry boat system that originally operated as the only way to cross the Red River and access the town of Ste. Agathe. The ferry boat transported pedestrians, buggies, machinery, cars and trucks for almost 90 years.
Members of Local 343 are optimistic that the new Ste Agathe Bridge will last just as long, if not longer, than its predecessor.
