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Dawson City Starts Discussion Around Ice Bridge

Tuesday, 28 August 2018 15:46

A typical ice bridge between the two communities when the river freezes over. (Photo courtesy of Yukon Department of Highways and Public Works)

An open house was held on August 22 regarding transportation options if the ice bridge doesn't freeze this fall.

A public meeting in Dawson City to discuss a new ice bridge to connect Dawson and West Dawson got underway  at the Downtown Hotel's conference room on August 22nd.

Communications and Public Relations Analyst Oshea Jephsen for Highways and Public Works noted forty people were in attendance at the open hall.

Jephsen also described the possible plan ahead regarding the construction of the bridge and who was consulted at the meeting last week in Dawson as part of the open house.

"There are two strategies being considered right now between the communities of Dawson and West Dawson. One of them might be moving (the bridge) further up the river. What were trying to do now is work out a plan with the community and with the Department of Highway and Public Works on the best option.  That was part of our discussion that took place last week."

While the ferry terminal connecting West Dawson is operational in summer , the government typically maintains the ice bridge connecting the 100 citizens living in the community across the Yukon River from Dawson in the winter. The  bridge  also permits workers to maintain the three subdivision in Dawson and allows transportation for workers to haul equipment over the river in early springtime to open the Top of the World Highway, Clinton Creek , and Sixty Mile Road.

Jephsen also mentioned whose looking into the possible project if the bridge doesn't freeze and how they're moving forward.  

"It's something the National Research Council Canada is looking at as well as the department... the river not freezing over is a relatively new event over the last couple years. We  are considering all options and now were just working to find the best one. As the season progresses, that'll determine how we move forward."

Last year, dead rope was strung across the narrowest point of the river, allowing restriction of water and ice formation. Days later, vehicles were travelling across. 

Many are hopeful the bridge freezes come wintertime to allow for normal crossing between the two communities.

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