Communities Unite to Mark Red Bridge Anniversary and Call for Replacement

On September 19, the City of Kamloops and Tḱemlúps te Secwépemc welcomed residents, community leaders, and partners to Pioneer Park to mark the second anniversary of the loss of the Red Bridge and reaffirm the importance of restoring this historic connection.

The community rally brought together people of all ages to share memories, reflect on the bridge's significance, and demonstrate support for rebuilding the provincially owned bridge. Attendees listened to remarks from local leaders, shouted their support, enjoyed family-friendly activities, and connected through stories about what the Red Bridge meant to generations of residents.

For decades, the Red Bridge served as more than transportation infrastructure. It connected Tḱemlúps te Secwépemc and Kamloops, supported regional mobility, and formed part of the daily lives of countless residents. Since its destruction in 2024, community members have continued to advocate to the Province for its replacement and for the restoration of this important link between the two communities.

The event highlighted the strong partnership between the City of Kamloops and Tḱemlúps te Secwépemc and their shared commitment to ensuring the bridge remains a provincial priority. Throughout the morning, residents were encouraged to share photos, stories, and memories of the bridge while adding their voices to the call to #ReplaceTheRedBridge. Member of Parliament Frank Caputo also established a petition at his Kamloops office, which residents were encouraged to sign.

The anniversary rally demonstrated that the Red Bridge remains an important part of the region's shared history and future. As the communities continue to work together and advocate for action, the message from September 19 was clear: the Red Bridge mattered, it still matters, and the connection it provided should be restored for future generations.