Remains of Red Bridge in Kamloops following September 19, 2024 suspected arson/via Government of BC

Riverside Park beach, Waterfront Park, and the Rivers Trail between Pioneer Park and Riverside Park are all set to reopen to the public effective Tuesday, October 8. The closures were in effect to limit public access to the Red Bridge site for everyone’s safety.

Pioneer Park and the Pioneer Park boat launch will remain closed until further notice.

Residents should expect intermittent closures on the Rivers Trail as needed to accommodate work on the site. The McArthur Island boat launch will be reopened as water levels permit.

An inspection by the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure has determined that what is left of the Red Bridge will have to be removed due to structural and safety concerns and to allow for the safe and effective cleanup of debris from the Thompson River. Officials say the cleanup effort will be complicated and will run through the winter. Tools such as cranes, barges, and heavy equipment will be needed to do the work while also taking care to reduce any environmental impact.

Transport Canada and the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure have ordered the portion of the South Thompson River between Pioneer Park and Riverside Park to remain closed to all boating and remind boaters to be cautious of debris downstream (west) of the confluence. Residents are asked to abide by all posted signage.

The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure continues to monitor traffic levels on key detour corridors, including the Halston Bridge and Columbia Street. The ministry will coordinate with the City on signal timing recommendations. We appreciate the community’s patience as we adjust to new traffic patterns.

Drone photo of the Red Bridge site from September 25, 2024, shows the infrastructure in place to prevent debris from travelling downstream.

Tkwenem7iple7 Joshua Gottfriedsen says it is committed to completing this work for community and for future generations. “Secwépemc laws, self-sustainability through the Scwenwen Economic Development Corporation, and our Archaeology and Natural Resources teams who will all play a key role in ensuring the land is well taken care of.”

“This partnership with the City of Kamloops and the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure offers an opportunity to create shared progress, economic growth, all rooted in our responsibility to protect the land with a focus on Reconciliation.”