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Preserving History: A Call to Save the Gold River Rail Bridge

In recent developments, the historic Gold River Rail Bridge, located in Chester Basin and built around 1905, is slated for demolition and replacement. The bridge has long been a cherished landmark for the community, serving as a scenic spot for walks and a reminder of the area’s rich heritage. This decision to replace rather than restore the bridge has sparked concern among local heritage advocates and residents.


Funding Allocated for Demolition and Replacement


According to reports, a budget of approximately $1 million has already been secured for the demolition, and current bids for a new bridge range from $10 to $20 million. A similar decision was faced with the Martins River and Mushamush bridges, both historical structures of comparable age that were successfully and beautifully restored rather than replaced. Community members are now asking: why can’t the same be done for the Gold River Rail Bridge?


Concerns Over Decision Process and Cost


A recent statement from Chester Deputy Warden Floyd Shatford has further fueled community interest. In an online article, Shatford stated, “We tried everything but there was no way to use the bridge, so we as council determined we needed to replace it regardless of the cost.” For many, the notion of proceeding “regardless of cost” raises questions about the scope and evaluation of the decision process.



Seeking an Independent Reassessment


Local advocates are now calling for a third-party reassessment by an independent engineering firm, emphasizing the importance of transparency in the bridge’s evaluation. Questions have been raised about potential conflicts of interest with previous engineering assessments, sparking a demand for a clear, unbiased cost comparison between demolition and restoration options.


The goal is to secure a fair evaluation of the bridge’s restoration potential and determine whether it could indeed be saved at a comparable—or even lower—cost than a full rebuild. This approach mirrors the successful restoration efforts of other historical bridges in the region, allowing the community to preserve a piece of its architectural and cultural history.


A Call to Action: Protecting Chester Basin’s Heritage


As discussions continue, the Chester Municipal Heritage Society urges community members and supporters to lend their voices to this cause. By signing a petition and engaging in open dialogue, the community can work together to ensure that all options are explored before any irreversible actions are taken.


Saving the Gold River Rail Bridge represents an opportunity to honour the past and retain a unique piece of Chester Basin’s identity. Please join us in advocating for a full, transparent reassessment of this historic structure and help preserve a treasured landmark for future generations.


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lindalab1
Oct 28, 2024

Please use the money to fix this bridge. It will cost less to have it fixed than to replace it

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