The Broadway Bridge construction project is entering a crucial phase in its completion as paving is set to begin next week after a waterproofing membrane is added to the bridge.

City of Saskatoon Asset Preservation Manager Luc Bittner said that the membrane and paving are some of the last steps in completing the bridge. Bittner said that most of the other bridge work had to be completed before paving.

“The finish line is in sight, we just need to get it paved and everything else is looking good. The intersection portion of the work that was included in the contract is essentially complete and all of the associated water main and sewer work that is underneath the intersection, that’s obviously complete as well.”

Bittner said the project is expected to be completed by November 1st. He added that while the bridge may look finished after paving is complete, the November deadline will ensure that the crew has time to make sure the bridge is suitable for the public to use.

“That will just give us time to address any potential deficiencies. It’s better to get them fixed while the bridge is closed than to open it up and have to close it again to fix any minor deficiencies that are out there. It’ll still be a work zone, so we’ll leave everything closed until it’s complete. It’ll be one opening.”

Along with assessing the bridge for deficiencies, additional work, such as painting lines and installing street lights will take place after paving is finished.