Traffic was snarled up for more than an hour at Erskine Bridge on Highway 12 last Tuesday.
A transport truck hauling a combine westbound was unable to pass the structure, which has been reduced to one lane during months of construction.
“The trucker was unaware of the construction and did not observe a detour sign for wide loads,” said Stettler RCMP Sgt. Duncan Babchuk, whose detachment was called to the scene at 5:08 p.m.
Traffic was tied up for 15 to 20 minutes, and many motorists sought alternate routes.
“It was fortunate that the work crew was still on site, so concrete barriers could be moved,” Babchuk said.
Investigators spoke with the truck driver, who advised that he observed the signs that were clearly posted, indicating 4.5-metre width on both sides of the bridge.
“The trucker was unaware of the construction and did not observe a detour sign for wide loads,” Babchuk said.
No damage to the truck, combine or bridge were reported and no charges are expected against the driver.
Hot time at A&W
Later that night, police assisted Stettler Regional Fire and Rescue in responding to a minor fire at A&W in the roof-top ventilation unit at 6:45 p.m.
“Smoke filled the whole restaurant, which was also evacuated,” Deputy Fire Chief Etienne Brugman said.
Fire was quickly extinguished and emergency crews departed the scene at about 7:30 p.m.
— Froese