The City Releases a Statement Regarding the James Street Bridge – City of Thunder Bay

March 27, 2018 – The City of Thunder Bay commends Fort William First Nation’s efforts in conferring with Canadian National Railway Company, and examining ways in which the James Street Bridge could be repaired and reopened to vehicular traffic once again.

In recent days, FWFN advised the City that it gave CN Railway a concept for repairs to the bridge, which is currently under review by CN Railway engineers. The City has not yet heard from CN Railway with respect to this concept, nor has CN Railway provided any comments to the City as to its feasibility.

The City has always been, and remains open to working with all interested parties, including CN Railway, to consider options that would see the James Street Bridge reopened to all traffic. The City, over the past four years, has sought to have CN Railway carry out these very repairs, and honour its commitments under the terms of its agreements with the City to allow rail, vehicle and pedestrian traffic across the bridge.

Mayor Keith Hobbs has the following statement on the FWFN concept for the bridge: “In 2011, the City declared its commitment to work collaboratively with FWFN on outstanding issues that are to our mutual benefit. The reopening of the James Street Bridge fits squarely within what is a ‘mutual benefit’ to both of our communities. We remain open to speaking with CN Railway on how we can reopen this critical point of access between FWFN and the City. Council is pleased to offer this statement of support for FWFN’s efforts.”

The Court of Appeal for Ontario heard the City’s appeal on this matter on January 24, 2018. It is expected that a decision may be issued in approximately two to four months.

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Contact:  Norm Gale, City Manager, 625-2224

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