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Cracks and holes are evident in the surface of the Scugog Line 8 bridge. Unfor- tunately the heavy cost to replace it, partially due to engineering, environment and a host of other studies which are required, are delaying any immediate solution. Continued from page 8 (WWID and with a projected life-span of 50 to 60 years we've reached the point where many (bridges) will soon have to be replaced,” he said. “We want it open as soon as possible,” he continued, but providing information from a report by Ian Roger, Scugog’s Director of Public Works and Parks, he estimat- ed that it will cost approximately $1.15 million to replace the present structure. The width of the bridge, steel beam to steam beam, is about 32’ give or take a foot, which puts the cost to replace the structure at near $36,000 a linear foot. This surprisingly high cost, which includes environ- mental studies, engineer reports, road analysis and actual construction is one of the main reasons the road remains closed. Despite the township’s plan to fix/ replace the bridge as soon as possible, the mayor said there are many other higher priority issues to be considered. He explained that almost 50 per cent of the town- ship’s roads are deficient and in need of repair, and they (council) have to prioritize where the money is best spent. A recent estimate of the cost to improve Scugog’s 414 kms of roads, 46 per cent which are gravel, would be more than $150 million. So for now, the Scugog Line 8 bridge will remain closed. If money can be found it will be replaced, but if not, the bridge will be added to an ever growing list of road projects which need to be undertaken. By J. Peter Hvidsten Focus on Scugog The Gloves Are On 05. MAY 64 FINAL FINAL.indd 13 Give yourself a fighting chance imple PSA t can save your life. JOIN THE FIGHT AGAINST PROSTATE CANCER! Durham Ride: Saturday, June 9 RideForDad.ca FOCUS - MAY 2012 13 12-04-22 10:22 AM