Image: Tara Clow

The theft of copper wire continues to be a major issue in Greater Moncton.

Riverview Town Councillor Heath Johnson pointed out this week, that the lighting on the Gunningsville Bridge was out, which raised concerns about safety.

Director of Engineering and Public Works with the Town Michel Ouellet confirmed what the problem was, “There’s been another theft of copper wires. The province is fully aware, and they are working on a solution as well as the City of Moncton.”

The bridge is taken care of by the province, but the City of Moncton is responsible for the lights on its half of the bridge.

City of Moncton Spokesperson Isabelle Leblanc says they are in the process of fixing poles and putting up additional mechanisms to deter vandalism.

She adds, that over the past week, copper was also stolen at Kiwanis Park twice, and they’ve had several issues with parks and trails.

Ouellet says this is a growing problem, “I’m part of a group that is keeping everyone informed as to the amount of vandalism and stolen copper and other stolen equipment throughout the province. It is significant. It is costing the province a lot of money.”

Incidents have been reported to RCMP.