The 2nd Avenue Bridge in Prince Rupert, British Columbia, closed again on July 8, 2026, for about two months of critical repairs. This is the second try at a full closure after the city temporarily reopened the bridge in late June because its initial traffic plan didn’t work well.
In June, city staff underestimated how many drivers and pedestrians use the bridge daily. Now, vehicles must take a detour on the CN access road, which has two-way traffic and a stoplight at Graham Avenue and 11th Street. But because of federal railway safety laws, pedestrians and cyclists are not allowed on that road and could face fines.
People walking or biking need to use Moresby Trail instead. The city added overnight security patrols starting at 9 p.m. and new lights along the trail to make it safer. Anyone who can’t use the trail because of mobility issues or safety worries can contact Prince Rupert City Hall at (250) 627-0934 or [email protected] for other transportation options.
Residents should plan for possible delays of 20 to 30 minutes on the CN access road because of train crossings. Stoplights, barricades, and flaggers will manage traffic, and emergency response times have been worked out with CN to avoid long waits.
The repair project, handled by Surespan Construction with a budget of around $3.2 million, includes fully replacing the pedestrian walkway and fixing structural problems found in a 2025 check. While this work goes on, the city is also studying other long-term routes for the bridge, which is the only way in and out for a large residential area.