The Government Road Bridge has been a part of the Town of Thessalon for approximately 100 years and as such has taken on an identity within the Town with both historical and nostalgic value. The original 100ft span Steel Pratt Truss structure with wooden deck and timber abutments was constructed around 1910. Over the many years of service, the oxidization of the steel has resulted in the bridge being affectionately known as the “Red Bridge”. Due to the age of the structure, the deterioration of the timber abutments and corrosion of the structural steel members, the bridge was removed from service in June of 2008. Through the assistance of the senior levels of government the rehabilitation of the bridge began in July of 2009, with a project cost of $1.05 million. With the historical and nostalgic value to the Town and its residents, the rehabilitation was undertaken with the objective to maintain the existing Pratt Truss structure and incorporate the “lumber town roots” of the community. The rehabilitation included installing new timber crib abutments, replacing approximately 70% of the structural steel members, widening the pedestrian walkway, installing wood decking, railing posts and guide rail as well as applying a fresh coat of paint.