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Walking bridge built after New Brunswick woman stranded when storm washed out bridge

Mary Ann Coleman is seen in Waterford, N.B., in an undated handout. Coleman says she knew there was a problem when the Trout Creek, that runs in front of her property, spilled its banks during a storm and began flooding areas that had never flooded before. The Canadian Press/HO-Mary Ann Coleman

A New Brunswick woman who was stranded for 10 days after flooding washed out a bridge to her home says she feels free now that a walking bridge has been built.

Mary Ann Coleman of Waterford, N.B., in the southeast of the province, lost her bridge after a storm on Dec. 1 flooded Trout Creek, which runs along the front of her property.

She said debris in the creek dammed a Department of Transportation culvert that was installed in 2019, and the rising waters washed away her bridge.

Coleman blames the design of the new culvert for creating a dam when debris collected in front of it.

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Transportation Minister Jill Green offered little comment this week because Coleman has opened a claim against the province.

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Coleman says family and friends have been able to visit since the temporary span was completed Friday night, but says a permanent bridge for vehicles is needed.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 12, 2020.

Click to play video: 'N.B. residents impacted by flooding encouraged to report damage'
N.B. residents impacted by flooding encouraged to report damage

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