Falling Debris Renews Safety Concerns Over Cancryn Bridge

Sen. Marvin Blyden is calling for immediate action after a portion of the deteriorating Cancryn pedestrian bridge fell onto a passing vehicle on St. Thomas last week, while Public Works Commissioner Derek Gabriel says the department hopes to complete emergency repairs within the next 30 days as officials continue weighing the bridge’s long-term future.

In a July 2 letter to Gabriel, Blyden described the bridge near the former Addelita Cancryn School as presenting “a serious and immediate concern for public safety” following the incident, which occurred at about 2 p.m. July 1. While no serious injuries were reported, Blyden said the outcome could easily have been far worse and urged the department to provide a written update on its plans by July 9.

The senator requested information on whether the bridge has been inspected since the incident, whether Public Works plans to demolish the structure, and what immediate measures will be taken to protect motorists and pedestrians from falling debris if demolition is not imminent. He also asked whether the department has coordinated with other agencies on possible removal as redevelopment continues in the Cancryn and Crown Bay areas.

Gabriel said the department plans to complete emergency repairs within approximately 30 days by removing a rusting, non-structural steel component that has begun deteriorating and breaking away.