Sources have told CKNW news that in an effort to reduce costs, the builders of the Port Mann Bridge decided not to install heated cables that would have prevented yesterday’s ice buildup.
We are told Kiewet was offered the option by the French subcontractor who handled the cables, but said no.
When workers asked why, they were told the harmonics on the bridge cables would prevent ice buildup.
Last word from ICBC has 60 claims made by drivers whose vehicles were damaged by the ice bombs that forced the complete closure of the brand new bridge for 5-and-a-half hours yesterday afternoon.
The company responsible for construction of the bridge has apologized.
However, “Transportation Investment Corporation” C-E-O Mike Proudfoot won’t confirm that they turned down the heated cable options.
So far, there has been no comment from Transportation Minister Mary Polak or Kiewet.
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