Ferry in service, ice bridge in use
Tara Kearsey
Northern News Services
Yellowknife (Dec 22/00) - Both transportation links at Fort Providence are open.
The Merv Hardie ferry was knocked out of service Wednesday night but returned to service Thursday afternoon. The ice bridge opened yesterday for cars and light trucks as well.
Les Shaw, director of marine services in Fort Simpson, said the ferry had to stop operation after a section of the Mackenzie River ice channel collapsed Dec. 20. Crews had to go to work to make a new channel.
It's the latest trouble for the crossing that has seen on-again-off-again service most of this month. Transport trucks have waited up to 30 hours to cross the Mackenzie River.
The Mackenzie ice bridge was opened to cars and light trucks up to 3,000 kg. at 10 a.m. Thursday.
The Dettah ice road also opened yesterday for vehicles up to 3,500 kg.
Shaw said trucking companies understand that ferry service is unpredictable this time of year, but he realizes how frustrating it can be.
"It's very difficult for us to keep it running."
