Alaska Highway: Sikanni Chief River Bridge fire repairs

Find out about the repairs to the Sikanni Chief River Bridge on the Alaska Highway.

Project overview

Project description

The Sikanni Chief River Bridge was in fair condition until a fire in summer 2022. The fire damage was extensive and affected the girders, deck, barriers, joints and substructure.

The following fire-damaged parts required immediate repair or replacement:

• the concrete of the girders, soffit, piers and abutments
• the bridge deck, joints and barriers
• the pier shafts and hammer heads
• the bearing
• the deck drain

The project restored the bridge to pre-fire structural condition and allowed the restored components to reach their remaining service life.

In line with mandatory requirements for federal departments and agencies, 5% of the contract value was awarded to Indigenous suppliers.

Key milestones

• February to March 2023: detailed design completed
• May 2023: tender posted
• July 2023: contract awarded
• July 2023: construction began
• November 2023: majority of construction completed
• Spring 2024: construction completed

Photo gallery

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Benefits to Canadians

This project provided local, regional and national economic benefits. It created jobs in the following industries:

• construction materials
• professional services

Now that the project is completed, the Alaska Highway will continue to operate at full capacity and provide significant economic activity in northeastern British Columbia, the Yukon and northern Canada.

Project background

On August 25, 2022, a serious motor vehicle accident involving an oil tanker truck resulted in a major fire at the Sikanni Chief River Bridge. The bridge suffered structural damage from the fire, with 4 out of the 5 spans affected.

Restrictions on loads were implemented immediately, along with inspections and material testing after the area was released by police.

On October 7, 2022, the bridge was reopened to full traffic loads after certification by the engineering consultant.

An inspection and monitoring program was ongoing to ensure the condition of the bridge did not change until the permanent repairs were completed.

Related links

• Contract award notice on the concrete rehabilitation of the Sikanni Chief River Bridge
• Alaska Highway
• From washouts to fire hazards: Keeping traffic flowing on the Alaska Highway
• Alaska Highway: Pink Mountain intersection improvements

From: Public Services and Procurement Canada