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Fort William First Nation to host Swing Bridge open house on Monday

Fort William First Nation residents continue to deal with growing frustration over delays in repairing the century-old James Street Swing Bridge. To deal with the problem, the band has scheduled an open forum on Monday at 6 p.m.

Fort William First Nation residents continue to deal with growing frustration over delays in repairing the century-old James Street Swing Bridge.

To deal with the problem, the band has scheduled an open forum on Monday at 6 p.m. at the Fort William First Nation community centre to allow residents to voice their concerns.

The delays have resulted from an October fire that led CN, which owns the span, to close it to vehiclular traffic, forcing residents to detour to Highway 61 to get to and from the reserve.

CN said it needed three months to formulate a consultant’s report detailing necessary repairs. With that time-line drawing to a close, Fort William First Nation leaders say they expect answers soon.

The list of issues caused by the bridge closure includes longer EMS wait times, a reduction in business and dangers associated with the Chippewa Road detour, which is unlit at night.

(Thunder Bay Television)



Leith Dunick

About the Author: Leith Dunick

A proud Nova Scotian who has called Thunder Bay home since 2002, Leith is Dougall Media's director of news, but still likes to tell your stories too. Wants his Expos back and to see Neil Young at least one more time. Twitter: @LeithDunick
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