News Release

SAINT LOUIS-DE-KENT (GNB) – The provincial government will replace the aging Saint Louis-de-Kent Bridge in Kent County with a 200-metre-long structure.

"The current bridge is 69-years-old and reaching the end of its serviceable life," said Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Claude Williams. "A new structure is needed for the safe and efficient movement of people and goods on Route 134 over the Kouchibougaucis River."

Since September 2011, a weight restriction has been set at five tonnes on the current bridge.
 
The new bridge will be built next to the existing one and will be higher due to a predicted rise in the sea level. More details will be released once capital budget funding is approved.
 
Williams said the location of a nearby historic religious shrine will be taken into consideration.

"Protection of the shrine will be a priority," Williams said. "In fact, the work we are planning to do includes improved access to it."

The department has had ongoing consultation with the Village of Saint Louis-de-Kent about the bridge project, he added.