In late September, a group of concerned residents appeared before city council to plead for the preservation of the Coteau Street Bridge. Council heard their concerns, but because of the cost differences between preserving the bridge versus tearing it down, they ultimately voted 4-2 to continue with demolition plans.
A 2020 report by Associated Engineering, which also assessed the condition of every other bridge in Moose Jaw, found that the bridge has reached the end of its lifespan. Associated Engineering said that even if repairs were made to keep the bridge for pedestrians, the bridge would still have to be torn down in 2035. Repairs required to keep the bridge open for vehicles until 2035 would cost over $1.5 million.
Demolition will cost the city $150,000, with CN Railway splitting the cost.
Nevertheless, Phil Siggelkow plans to go before council to argue that the bridge should remain. He placed a sign on the bridge asking people using it to put their names to a petition. Siggelkow and some other concerned residents were able to gather 258 signatures.
Siggelkow and his wife live on the Church of God Campus on Trinity Lane. Siggelkow was president of the former International Bible College for 17 years. In total, he worked at the college for over 30 years. Now retired, he and his wife use the Coteau Street Bridge almost every day for groceries, medical appointments, or collecting the mail.
Without the bridge, their options are Home Street East or River Drive through Wakamow Valley. Despite being the long way around, River Drive is appealing. While it is rough and narrow in places, it is relatively smooth compared to Home Street, which is tooth-rattling and crosses two frequently-used train lines. Home Street’s disrepair has been another frequent complaint raised by those opposed to the demolition.
The residential neighbourhoods across the bridge look out over Wakamow Valley. Once the bridge is gone, their access to several beautiful spots to view the valley will be reduced – or eliminated. Siggelkow says the bridge is used every day by walkers, runner, and cyclists. He feels that the demolition will cause the community to feel more isolated.
City council has confirmed they are finalizing details to hear Mr. Siggelkow at the council meeting on Nov. 22. He will be supported at the meeting by several of his fellow petitioners, and will have approximately 10 minutes to present his argument.
