CN Rail starts repairs on burned James Street bridge

CN Rail says it has started initial work repairing the James Street bridge in Thunder Bay, a month after it was damaged by fire.

The railway is repairing the walkway, handrail, deck material and timber piles, according to a spokesperson.

Its still unclear when the bridge will reopen to vehicle and pedestrian traffic as the railway awaitsa final consultants report about the damage caused by last months fire.

CN Rail is scheduled to meet next week to give an update on plans for the bridge to officials from Thunder Bay and Fort William First Nation.

Meanwhile, Thunder Bay Fire and Rescue Chief John Hay is warning pedestrians not to try any shortcuts across the Kam River.

We've sent out our messages to stay off the ice, Hay said. It certainly will be an attractive shortcut for that, and we hope that people use a lot of common sense and do not do not try that shortcut.