HCNT Urges Yukon Government To Save Bridge

HCNT Urges Yukon Government to Stop Demolition of Ross River Suspension Bridge 

Ottawa, ON, March 7, 2014 – Heritage Canada The National Trust (HCNT) wrote to Yukon’s Minister of Community Services, Brad Cathers yesterday to request his intervention to stop the demolition of the historic Ross River Suspension Bridge.  

This action would allow time to review the options for sustaining this extraordinary Yukon heritage and tourism asset. 

“Additional time could also lead to concerted efforts to leverage alternate funding resources to support the bridge’s conservation,” wrote HCNT executive director Natalie Bull. “The Department of Canadian Heritage’s recently announced Legacy Fund indicates the federal government’s national priority for commemorating the 75th Anniversary of Canada’s participation in World War II.” 

The Legacy Fund can be applied to the restoration of existing World War II-related structures that have local community significance.

The Ross River Suspension Bridge was built in 1943 as part of the Canol pipeline system to supply the Allied war effort, and is an exceptional example of engineering ingenuity. At 316 metres long with a 192-metre span it is the longest suspension bridge of its kind in North America. Now a landmark structure, it is highly valued by nearby Ross River residents and visitors alike who have been using it as a foot bridge over the Pelly River for decades. 

For further information contact:
Carolyn Quinn, Director, Communications
cquinn@heritagecanada.org
613-237-1066 ext. 229; cell 613-797-7206
www.heritagecanada.org