FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Prince George, B.C. – The wastewater infrastructure project along the John Hart Bridge is nearly complete. Work begins next week to connect the new, 1,300 metre force main to the existing one at 5th Avenue.
Starting August 11, southbound traffic will be reduced to a single lane from the bridge to 5th Avenue and the right turn lane from Highway 97 onto 5th Avenue will be closed. The inside southbound lane and the two left turn lanes will remain open. Northbound lanes will not be impacted. Work is expected to take eight days with lanes reopening the morning of August 19.
Project background
The John Hart bridge force main project was identified in 2019 after an inspection of the old main, which was installed in 1977, showed signs of deterioration. In June 2024, the City issued a statement advising residents to avoid a section of the Nechako River underneath the bridge due to a sanitary sewer leak. Staff worked closely with provincial and federal partners to mitigate health risks and environmental impacts and installed a temporary containment unit.
Work started last fall to replace the aging infrastructure which resulted in a total closure of the bridge for two weeks from October 9 to 25, 2024. The project was originally scheduled to wrap in February 2025, though unexpected delays of construction materials slowed work.
The new pipeline runs from the pump station on Tomlin Road to the force main at the intersection of Highway 97 and 5th Avenue and will service all properties north of the Nechako River. Once the new line is connected, the old line can be isolated and replaced. Twinning the lines ensures continuity of service in the event of a break and increases capacity, allowing for future growth and development north of the city.
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Media contact:
Kendall Robertson, senior communications advisor
Mobile: 778-349-5393
Email: media@princegeorge.ca