ST. THOMAS — The V.I. Department of Public Works is moving forward with plans to remove the Addelita Cancryn pedestrian bridge in response to continuing concerns about the structure and its potential impact on public safety, though officials say a demolition date cannot yet be established.
DPW said Tuesday that it has begun coordinating the work necessary to safely demolish the bridge. That process includes evaluating the structure and demolition requirements, identifying applicable permits and regulatory requirements, determining procurement and funding needs, and coordinating with government agencies and other stakeholders.
Those steps must be completed before the department can schedule and safely carry out the demolition.
“We understand the concerns surrounding this bridge, particularly for motorists traveling beneath it, and we recognize the public's desire to see it addressed,” said Acting Commissioner Rueben Jennings. “Our goal is to safely remove the structure. At the same time, demolition requires proper planning, coordination, and authorization, and we do not want to announce a timeline before those requirements have been addressed. What I can assure the public is that DPW is actively working to move the process forward.”
While the pre-demolition process continues, DPW is also evaluating measures that could be used to address safety in and around the bridge until the structure is removed.
The department has not identified what those interim measures could include.
DPW also has not established a demolition date. Officials said additional information will be released as key milestones are completed and the department is able to establish a reliable schedule.
Before demolition begins, DPW said motorists will be notified about expected traffic impacts, including any road closures, detours or other changes required to accommodate the work.
The department said it will continue providing updates as the demolition process advances, while maintaining its focus on the safety of the traveling public and the integrity of the territory's transportation infrastructure.
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