Video Surveillance in Place for Placentia Lift Bridge

The Provincial Government has installed a video surveillance camera to monitor vehicles crossing the Sir Ambrose Shea lift bridge in Placentia while the 13,000 kilogram weight restriction is in place.

“In light of evidence that some commercial vehicles have ignored the posted weight restrictions, the Provincial Government is changing its enforcement efforts,” said the Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister of Transportation and Works. “It is disappointing that some drivers have taken risks, but I am confident our new measures will prevent further incidents while the bridge is being repaired.”

The Department of Transportation and Works has installed a 24-hour video surveillance camera at the bridge that is capable of licence plate recognition for enforcement purposes. Service NL will continue to perform spot checks of vehicle weights at the bridge while repairs take place.

“Public safety is our primary concern and it has become apparent that increased surveillance is necessary in order to enforce this posted weight restriction,” said the Honourable Paul Davis, Minister of Service NL. “Through the use of a surveillance camera system in tandem with our other enforcement efforts, government will ensure the safety of the bridge for the travelling public while repairs are underway.”

Repair work is ongoing, and once completed, the load capacity of the bridge will be restored. The bridge is safe for public use provided the load restriction is observed.

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2012 04 03             3:15 p.m.