Federal officials say the Burlington Canal Lift Bridge will now remain open.

Earlier this week, the Hamilton Oshawa Port Authority (HOPA) said the bridge, which is located on Eastport Dr., would soon be closed and left in the raised position.

The bridge allows vessels to enter and exit from Hamilton Harbour into Lake Ontario.

Staffing issues due to the COVID-19 pandemic were cited as the reason for possible temporary closure.

A spokesperson for Public Services and Procurement Canada said the agency will release a public notice in the event the bridge would need to be closed to vehicle and pedestrian traffic.

They say the bridge will remain open to all traffic and operations will continue as usual until further notice.