Bridges and bridge sized culverts remain a high priority for County Council. The County has 96 bridge sized culverts, 91 standard bridges and 10 major bridges, for a total of 197 structures.  Ongoing inspections and ratings of each of these structures is undertaken by the County.

Alberta Transportation plays a major role in maintaining the County’s bridge infrastructure through the GAP funding program. Alberta Transportation has been allocating $18,000,000.00 for all bridge repairs in the province. Funds are allocated on a priority rating for all bridges and bridge sized culverts (1.5 diameter or bigger) across the province.

The County submits yearly bridge requests to Alberta Infrastructure & Transportation for bridge funding.  These requests are prioritized against all other bridges in the province for possible funding.  County Council yearly approves approximately $300,000 to offset any funding received, and continues to request Provincial grants in order to maintain bridge and culvert infrastructure.

When seeking approvals for bridge repairs/replacements a number of permits are required from various departments such as the Coast Guard, Department of Fisheries, Alberta Environment and Alberta Transportation. Approvals now require fish and navigability studies.

Construction costs have increased due to the extra studies, fish ladders, fish resting ponds and habitat. Silt fences are also required to protect the water quality.