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New bridge makes pedestrian access easier

More than 50 people braved wintry weather to show their appreciation for a new footbridge in town and support for the Boyd family.
SA Laurie Boyd Bridge Opening
Doug and Darlene Boyd, left, cut the ribbon along with Amy Mounkes and Okotoks Mayor Bill Robertson to the new Laurie Boyd Bridge on Nov. 23. The bridge replaces an older one, with safety and usability in mind.

More than 50 people braved wintry weather to show their appreciation for a new footbridge in town and support for the Boyd family. Darlene, Doug and Trevor Boyd were present for the official opening of the new Laurie Boyd Pedestrian Bridge in Sheep River Park on Nov. 23. The four-metre wide bridge replaces its narrower predecessor but retains the name in memorial of 16-year-old Laurie Boyd, who was murdered in Okotoks in 1982. It was an emotional ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Boyd family, just days after attending a parole hearing for one of Boyd’s killers, James Peters, on Nov. 16. Peters’ parole was denied. “Thanks Okotoks, for remembering,” said Darlene, who now lives in Vulcan. “I know we should be here, living here, but you do the things you have to do. Thank you all so much.” Mayor Bill Robertson said the decision to keep the name, Laurie Boyd Pedestrian Bridge, was made unanimously by council when plans to replace the bridge began two years ago. He thanked the Boyd family for attending during a difficult time. “We greatly appreciate you joining us,” said Robertson. “I would also like to thank Mr. Art Hanger, former Reform and Conservative member of parliament, who has steadfastly stood by the Boyd family in support of their fight for justice.” He said the Town is very proud of the new Laurie Boyd bridge, which he called “extremely impressive.” The new $2.7-million bridge is 110 metres long and four metres wide, the bridge will accommodate better pedestrian access to Sheep River Park, he said. It adds to the Town’s offering of infrastructure for active transportation, which is a priority for council and administration, he said. “Active transportation, using your own power to get from one place to another, benefits our community by improving the health, our environment, and the economy,” said Robertson. “As the primary pedestrian connection to our river valley pathway network from the north side of town, the replacement of the old bridge was necessary to enhance active transportation and safety for users.” With a much wider deck than the former Laurie Boyd bridge, the new bridge will be more accommodating for people in wheelchairs, pushing double-wide strollers, riding bicycles or walking dogs. The bridge was also built using Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles, making it safe for pedestrians at any time of day, he said. “A shallower bridge camber, or arch, and the installation of handrail lighting, allow easier pedestrian access, better visibility, and therefore enhanced safety,” said Robertson. An increased load allowance and width also mean the bridge can handle emergency and maintenance vehicles as needed, he said. Robertson thanked the community for its support and patience through the three-month construction period as the old bridge was removed from the park and the new one installed. “Our community has been very supportive of this project,” said Robertson. “We thank them for their patience and co-operation through construction over the past several months.”

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