The newly repaired Keith Wilson bridge was in operation  Wednesday afternoon — a little more than a week ahead of schedule.

City of Chilliwack contractors, Coquitlam Ridge Constructors, managed to complete the extensive construction and repair work in better than expected time.

The repairs were necessary because the bridge asphalt had deteriorated, and underside damage was found on the concrete bulkheads at the steel girder ends. The abutment walls had to be excavated and rebuilt at both ends.

The project cost about $235,000. The bridge repair was designed by Morrison Hershfield Ltd. and features new concrete retaining walls at the bridge ends and a new expansion joint.

“We are pleased to announce that Coquitlam Ridge Constructors has completed repair work to the Keith Wilson Bridge one week ahead of schedule and the road and bridge will reopen to all traffic as of 1 p.m. today,” said city public relations rep Starlee Renton in news release on Wednesday.

jfeinberg@theprogress.com

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