With roads and bridges making up 54% of Chatham-Kent's infrastructure costs, allocations for their upkeep will be a big budget discussion.
Engineers have been faced with a defecit for a number of years, with requirements for bridges coming in at almost $11 million, allocations came up short $2.7 million in the last budget.
CK Manager of Infrastructure Nelson Cavacas says if the deficit isn't addressed soon, bridges will be in worse and worse shape. "That is the challenge...we are mandated to inspect bridges every two years. As we go back and we identify issues, then there are requirements with loads, we have to take immediate action."
If recommendations from staff are adopted in 2015, bridge reserves will total just over $6 million.
The final municipal budget open house goes Thursday, January 29th in Chatham at the Active Lifestyle Centre.
