Incident Overview

In a startling turn of events just before Thursday evening’s rush hour, the Macdonald Bridge in Halifax has been closed to all traffic—both vehicles and pedestrians—following the damage of a construction crane.

Investigation and Response

Halifax Harbour Bridges (HHB) reported that a detailed investigation is underway to assess the stability of the crane, which is located near the Dartmouth side of the bridge. 'The bridge will remain closed until HHB is advised the situation is safe,' they stated in a post on social media shortly after 3 p.m. local time.

Halifax Regional Police promptly responded to the scene, implementing closures not only on the bridge but also in the surrounding areas, including Faulkner Street, Lyle Street, Windmill Road, and Wyse Road.

Safety Measures

Local authorities, including the province's Department of Labour, are closely monitoring the situation. A representative stated that three stop work orders have been issued: one for the crane itself, a second for its eventual removal once stabilized, and the third to halt work at the site as well as two nearby construction zones. 'Occupational Health and Safety officers are fully engaged and are communicating regularly with emergency services,' said spokesperson Sarah MacNeil.

Impact on Residents

Fortunately, no injuries have been reported in connection with this incident. However, in a preventive measure, about 25 residents have been evacuated from the vicinity, with the Canadian Red Cross stepping in to provide temporary accommodations for those affected.

Future Updates

In an evening update at 6 p.m., HHB cautioned that there are no guarantees regarding the bridge's reopening in time for the busy Friday morning rush. 'We understand the significant impact this closure will have on commuters and urge everyone to plan ahead while exercising patience,' the organization stated.

The incident has raised questions among commuters and has consequently sparked concerns over potential delays in sightseeing, local businesses, and emergency services access. As the city grapples with this unexpected closure, officials have emphasized their commitment to community safety, promising to release further updates as new information unfolds.

Conclusion

Stay tuned as we continue to provide live updates on this breaking news story affecting Halifax and its daily commuters!