Bridgewater Town Council gave their approval to close the old bridge for a night in June to host a white party in support of the local Health Services Foundation.

“We’ll be rolling out carpet along the bridge, with all-white decor and an all-white dress code for a night of fine dining with entertainment in support of a good cause,” said Details Events owner Shanna Joudrey who is organizing the event. “We wanted to bring people back to the river for the town’s 125th birthday and this seemed like a great unique way to do it,”.

Town council shared Joudreys’ thoughts noting that they were attracted to how unique the event was and that it would draw people to the downtown area.

Initially, the event was proposed for Friday, June 14, however, it was changed to June 15 after council noted the traffic disruption of closing the bridge on a Friday would be far more significant.

In granting their approval, council is providing the event with a $3,000 in-kind donation, which will cover costs associated with closing the bridge to minimize costs and maximize support to the Health Services Foundation.

With provincial and town approval now secured Joudrey will be reaching out to local businesses for sponsorship opportunities. Once those begin to firm up Joudrey says they can begin putting tickets up for sale.

Joudrey’s proposal to the town council indicated she was planning for 125 attendees, however, council inquired if more could be accommodated to maximize the success of the event and Joudrey indicated the bridge could seat up to 456 people.

Documents from Details Events and Wedding Planning submission to council to host an event on the old bridge. Photo: Town of Bridgewater.

As a result of the event, the old bridge will be closed to vehicles on June 15 from 1 p.m. until the event concludes (9:30 p.m.), with one side of the sidewalk remaining open to pedestrian traffic.