OLD HWY. 17 – The Mississippi River Bridge is facing another delay as builders deal with “unforeseen” issues.

The bridges’ scheduled re-opening is being delayed a second time after bridge builders Demathieu Bard Construction delayed the original re-opening date of October last Sept. 4.

“Please be advised the completion date for the replacement of the Mississippi River Bridge will require to be further extended due to unforeseen construction issues,” project coordinator Qusay Rassawala wrote in a letter dated Oct. 29. “There are several construction items which affect the roadway that need to be addressed and completed prior to re-opening.”

Rassawala did not provide details on what those items were.

“As part of the ongoing work, Hwy. 17 will remain closed between Kinburn and Galetta Side Road. Only local traffic will be permitted,” Rassawala said. “The highway is expected to re-open by late November. We apologize for any inconvenience.”

The bridge replacement has been a two-year project, paid for with provincial tax dollars. Before starting the bridge project, the province rehabilitated around 14 kilometres of Hwy. 17 in the West Carleton area. The project is part of a plan that will see the province give responsibility of the road to the City of Ottawa upon completion.