A New Brunswick covered bridge that was destroyed by fire in 2008 will be replaced this summer with a $360,000 Bailey bridge.

The Upper Stone Ridge bridge in York County was a "cherished landmark," Transportation Minister Denis Landry stated in a news release.

It was also the last covered bridge that spanned the Keswick River, he said.

"I am pleased that the federal government has joined us to replace this piece of rural infrastructure, which will benefit people and this region."

The new prefabricated steel truss bridge is expected to provide both social and safety benefits to area residents by reducing the travel time to destinations across the river and by ensuring emergency vehicles have a direct connection to homes on both sides of the river.

The federal and provincial governments will each contribute $180,000 to the project.

"These investments will deliver immediate benefits and will be the foundation of sustainable long-term economic growth and self-sufficiency," Landry said.

Construction is scheduled to begin in June and be completed by September.

The previous bridge, built in 1914, was destroyed by fire on Oct. 10, 2008.

New Brunswick now has just 62 covered bridges, compared with more than 400 a century ago.

The last covered bridge built in the province was in 1951.

The two levels of government will also spend $362,500 each to improve Route 109 in the northwestern part of the province.

Work will include pavement repairs from the Trout Brook area to Tobique River #3.