International Bridge Ready for Underwater Pier Inspection

April 20, 2015 — The Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge will get a regular checkup when underwater bridge pier inspection starts next week.

The work involves inspecting the International Bridge’s piers below the water line in the St. Mary’s River. The inspection will be performed by qualified divers and engineers using scuba gear and digital recording devices to examine and record the condition of the piers in areas not visible above the water line.

The inspection – expected to cost $51,000 – is mandated by the Federal National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS) and must be performed every five years. (more…)

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New Smartphone App, New Canadian Currency Toll

March 26, 2015 — With the U.S. dollar’s continuing strength, International Bridge customers paying with Canadian currency will see the toll rate increased, while the U.S. rates remain unchanged. Bridge customers will have added convenience for viewing wait times and toll rates with an app for mobile devices.

The app is available for iPhone and Android operating systems, and is a free download from the iTunes (iTunes) and Google Play (Google Play) app stores.

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Sault Ste. Marie Bridge Authority Resolution Honours McIntyre

February 20, 2015 — At their quarterly meeting Thursday, members of the Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge Authority (SSMBA) board paid tribute to the board’s chairman, James McIntyre, who died Feb. 11 as the result of an accident.

The board unanimously passed a resolution commemorating McIntyre’s long commitment to the Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge and the people it serves.

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International Bridge Administration mourns the passing of James McIntyre

February 12, 2015 – Flags will be flown at half-staff at the International Bridge in honor of Sault Ste. Marie Bridge Authority (SSMBA) Chairman James McIntyre, who died Wednesday, Feb. 11, as the result of an accident.

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Jim McIntyre speaks at the Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge dedication dinner on May 24, 1963.

Phil Becker, general manager of the International Bridge Administration (IBA), said the thoughts and prayers of SSMBA board members past and present, bridge staff, representatives from the Federal Bridge Corporation Ltd., and the Michigan Department of Transportation are with McIntyre’s family and friends.

“Our sadness is difficult to express as we consider the loss of our friend and colleague Jim McIntyre,” Becker said. “Jim’s passion for the bridge has had a profound impact on the bridge and the many people involved with it over its 52 years of existence. Our respect for Jim’s integrity — as expressed many times in his firm but fair approach to bridge business — is beyond measure.”

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