P.E.I. National Park paving will cause some traffic disruptions

High wind and driving rain are adding to challenges faced by crews beginning a $5.8-million dollar restoration ofCoveheadbridge in Prince Edward Island National Park.

In addition to poor weather, workers on the bridge have had to deal with unusually high tides this week.

• $24M for P.E.I. National Park upgrades announced

Workers say it has been a rough start.

"They're a dedicated bunch and they seem to take it all in stride," said Robert Noye, site inspector at WSP Architecture.

Workers are removing sections of delaminated concrete on the bridge - old and flaking apart - as well as replacing corroded steel rebar embedded in that concrete.

Bridge closed, to reopen April 15

"It's a rather large project. Right now we're working at chipping old, delaminated concrete in the piers ... it's be chipped out to new rebar, and cleaned up and regrouted," said Robert Noye, site inspector at WSP Architecture.

Part of the bridge project includes widening the two-lane bridge, making it a safer crossing for pedestrians and cyclists.

Covehead bridge is closed to all traffic and will remain closed throughout the fall and winter, reopening April 15, park officials said.

A fishermen told CBC News he is worried about the construction getting in the way of lobster fishing season next May.

More traffic restrictions along the park's main road are also in store.

Project part of $24 million in upgrades

Later this month, repaving work will begin on the Gulf Shore Parkway, between Brackley and Dalvay.

It includes the Greenwich and Cavendish sections of the national park, as well as the Port-Lajoie Fort Amherst national historic site, on P.E.I.'s south shore.

It is part of $24 million in upgrades announced earlier this year.

The work at Port LaJoie Fort Amhert involves repaving roads and parking lots.

At Greenwich and Cavendish, workers will upgrade hiking trails, camping facilities and visitor centres.