Repair timeline unclear for Cherry Street bridge: ‘It’s a huge inconvenience’

One week after the Cherry Street lift bridge got stuck in the vertical position, its timeline for repair remains uncertain — as one business claims a significant drop in revenue as a result of the disruption.

The bridge in Toronto’s Lower Donlands has been impassable since Aug. 1 when, according to the city, mechanical and electrical failure caused it to jam at its present position.

A week into the closure, residents and people who work in the area continue to adjust.

“We kind of had to find our own way around to get onto the pier,” said Ian Holland, who was biking with a friend.

Another cyclist, Catherine Strus, said her riding time has tripled since the bridge jammed.

“It means I have to leave earlier and plan my time more wisely,” Strus said. “It’s a huge inconvenience.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "It means I have to leave earlier and plan my time more wisely," Strus said. "It's a huge inconvenience."

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For Sabrina Saudin, who drives to the area from Mississauga, the closure has meant more available parking spots, but she still wants to see the bridge open.

Lost business

The malfunctioning bridge has meant a drop in sales of between 40 and 50 per cent at The Keating Channel Pub & Grill, according to its owner, Shakir Omar.

“They can’t risk an hour and a half for lunch,” Omar said of his customers, who he said face unreasonable travel times to reach his restaurant.

He told Global News the summer months are critical for his business, and says he has had to reduce hours for his staff.

“I’ve had to cut their hours in half — and it was with a heavy heart I had to do it — because I mean our sales just don’t support it at this point,” Omar said.

Transit troubles

People who work in the area have said riding transit has been especially challenging, with confusing detours and far drop-off points.

Global News contacted the Toronto Transit Commission by phone and email but did not receive a response in time for publication.

The city said it is working with PortsToronto on a plan to lower the bridge with repairs to follow.

WATCH: (Oct. 28, 2016) Police remove submerged car and driver from Lake Ontario below Cherry Street bridge

1:25 Police remove submerged car and driver from Lake Ontario below Cherry Street bridge