Bridge back in operation

SYDNEY — Boaters can once again sail their crafts under the Barra Strait Bridge now that repairs have been completed on the structure's draw bridge.

The bridge had been closed to boaters since June 25 which restricted sailings between St. Peter's and Baddeck.

Crews from the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure installed a new drive motor this week and after a day of testing determined all systems were in working order.

The bridge spans the Barra Strait in the Bras d'or Lake connecting Iona in Victoria County to Grand Narrows in Cape Breton County.

The new highway bridge opened in 1993 ending more than 100 years of ferry service between the two island communities.