A provincial spokesperson says both fires that destroyed two bridges in Hanover on Wednesday were accidental in nature.

The Office of the Fire Commissioner (OFC) has concluded its investigation into what caused both a bridge along Provincial Road (PR) 311 and Road 26E to go up in flames. The bridge along PR 311 is located between PR 206 and 216, while the other bridge is about half a mile north, along Road 26E.

A provincial spokesperson says Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure (MTI) will lead work to determine the full extent to which both bridges have been damaged, which will form the final valuation of the damage. MTI anticipates that assessments will be completed this summer. This will include developing and evaluating the repair and replacement alternatives, selecting the preferred alternative, and obtaining necessary approvals.

Once these items have been assessed MTI will be able to provide the costs associated with the damaged bridges.

A provincial spokesperson says PR 311 is closed in both directions over the Manning Canal, from PR 216 to PR 206. MTI has installed detour signs and variable message boards identifying alternate routes for motorists to use during the closure of PR 311.

MTI has also closed the bridge over the Manning Canal on Road 26E.

The OFC reminds Manitobans not to leave fires burning unattended. Many municipalities have implemented burning restrictions. The OFC reminds residents to check with local municipal offices for more information. The province will not issue burning permits within or areas bordering any municipality where municipal burning restrictions are already in place. 

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