Only one traffic lane will be available for vehicular traffic on the bridge. The flow of traffic will be regulated by traffic lights and motorists are asked to carefully observe and follow the traffic signs that will be erected.
The same civil works process will also be followed on the second lane in the week of June 22 for another five day period. The successful completion of the works is conditioned on the weather.
The Traffic Police have indicated that they will be on standby should it be necessary to help facilitate the flow of traffic.
The bridge will only open for maritime traffic in and outbound vessels on Sundays during the construction phase period at 6.00pm. After June 30, 2009 the bridge will continue to open daily on the regular opening hours.
At times the bridge will open for approximately 20 minutes or less to facilitate the works that need to be carried out on the face side of the structure. These openings will take place before 6.00am and after 8.00pm when there is hardly any vehicular traffic.
Managing Director of the Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority Russell Voges says due to the constant vehicular movement over the bridge, the coating on the deck has become worn and needs to be replaced.
"These civil works are part of the full rehabilitation of the bridge project which has been carried out in phases over a period of time.
"I appeal to motorists for their patience and apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause. The contractors will work diligently to limit the inconvenience as much as possible," Director Voges pointed out.
The recommendations made by Rijkswaterstaat, (the Dutch Authority for Waterworks and Bridges) in their report of March 2007 are being executed to ensure the durability and longevity of the Simpson Bay Bridge.
For any further information please call the Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority's Collection Office at the Police Station in Simpson Bay next to the bridge at telephone numbers: 545 3183 or via the Police Station at telephone numbers: 545 5500/01/02/03/04/05 or call the Bridge Operator on VHF channel 12.