--April 4, 2009

Driving down Cross Loop Road towards the Meech Creek covered bridge in Chelsea, one can marvel at the beauty of the Gatineau Hills. That is until they get to the bridge itself, which is in an embarrassing state of repair.

In better times: Chelsea covered bridge in 2005. (Photo: M. Farfan)

Apart from the peeling and fading pale red paint all over the bridge, several wooden planks are also cracked and warped, leaving the bridge looking worn, tired and old. A former gem in an idyllic pastoral setting, not to mention the emblem for the municipality’s logo, it’s not a pretty picture.

Several planks are missing along the top, side and bottom; crossing the bridge, you can’t help but notice the shifting, creaking planks below you and the protruding nails all over the interior walls.

One corner of the bridge has even begun to crack and rot due to the accumulation of water. Up above, the roof has started to slowly break apart and if it’s not fixed soon, it could easily become an uncovered bridge.

What is to become of the historical landmark often associated with the heart and soul of rural Chelsea? Chelsea Communications chief Charles Cardinal said, although he doesn’t have many details about repair plans for the 95-year-old bridge, something is in the works.

“The bridge is on our radar, but we need more details,” he said. “We are really busy right now and some things are priority.” Cardinal added that the bridge is important to maintain, and is part of Chelsea’s identity and brings tourists from other areas.