University Bridge expected to reopen late Thursday afternoon

A burning mattress at an abandoned encampment underneath the University Bridge didn’t cause any apparent structural damage, and the bridge is expected to open again late Thursday afternoon.

The fire broke out early Wednesday morning, and the major crossing over the South Saskatchewan River was closed for most of the day as firefighters and engineers worked to extinguish the fire – which spread to an archway under the bridge – and assess the damage.

On Thursday, the city announced that the fire risk had ended, and no apparent structural damage was found during an assessment.

“It is anticipated that the bridge will be reopened by late afternoon today, barring any delays or unforeseen circumstances,” the city said in a statement. “Walkways on the bridge have been reopened for pedestrians and cyclists.”

Drivers were advised to continue using alternate routes until the bridge opens up.

“From the east side of the bridge, drivers are encouraged to take Clarence Avenue to 12th Street and use the Broadway Bridge or use 8th Street and use the Traffic Bridge or Senator Sid Buckwold Bridge,” the city said.

“From the west side of the bridge, drivers are encouraged to take alternate routes downtown and to use the Broadway Bridge, Traffic Bridge, or Senator Sid Buckwold Bridge.”

The closure also affected bus service on Routes 4, 43, 44, 45, 46 and 6, the city noted.