Concerns are surfacing over an aspect of the new Johnson Street Bridge's design that's causing problems for barge traffic.
Seaspan Marine Corporation, one of the companies that operates tug boats locally, has sent a letter to the City of Victoria to complain about new speed restrictions on loaded barges. Seaspan alleges the city moved to restrict speeds because the new bridge has inadequate fenders protecting the span from collisions. In the letter, Seaspan says they have "serious concern" with the new 3.5 knot limit because their tug boat captains need to use varying speeds to keep a loaded barge under control.
To make matters worse, Seaspan says the abutments from the old Johnson Street Bridge remain in place. When combined with the new bridge it means the stretch of water covered by the slower speeds is doubled.
When reached for comment about the letter, Seaspan Marine President Bart Reynolds said "we have requested that the City of Victoria reconsider its position to seek a reduced speed limit from Transport Canada and the Victoria Harbour Master... We look forward to working with the City of Victoria and Transport Canada to come to a solution that satisfies the needs and safety standards of all parties involved.”
Seaspan informed the city in the letter, dated Dec 13 2016, that they will curtail barge service operations in that part of the harbour because of the issue.
