17.5 km bridge closed to public as police advise of extra patrols in area
The Grande Prairie RCMP and County of Grande Prairie Peace Officers are advising the public that they will be having an increased presence at the Canfor Bridge (17.5 km) at the Wapiti River, due to what they are calling an increase in “concerning behaviours”.
RCMP say that they have laid various charges against 32 individuals in recent weeks, as well as two impaired drivers. They have also received several reports of drinking and driving, underage drinking, assaults and parking in a manner that obstructs the road.
The roadway is privately owned by Canfor to the north and south of the bridge, and is used daily by logging and gravel trucks. Authorities say vehicles parked on the bridge or on the Canfor road create an increased public safety risk.
“Our priority is to ensure public safety, and the safety of our employees and contractors who require daily access to the bridge and logging road,” says Michelle Ward, Senior Director, Communications & Government Relations for Canfor.