Give yourself extra time or hop aboard a ferry if you plan to travel between Halifax and Dartmouth this weekend.

The A. Murray MacKay Bridge will be closed to all traffic from Friday at 8:00 p.m. until Monday at 5:30 a.m.

In a release, Halifax Harbour Bridges says it is due to scheduled maintenance and will depend on weather — especially wind— since large cranes are required for the work.

Crews will remove cable inspection platforms and demolish the back ramp of the MacKay Bridge garage.

After the bridge reopens, the ramp demolition will stretch into Monday. That will mean the full closure of the Princess Margaret Boulevard (South ramp) for the day. The Princess Margaret Boulevard North ramp will not be affected.

Meanwhile, to help reduce traffic congestion during the MacKay’s closure, HHB encourages the use of public transit and says it will be offering free ferry rides all weekend.

The bridge commission also advises drivers to expect delays and provides the following tips:

• Allow extra time to reach your destination.
• Avoid peak travel periods when possible.
• Drive alternate routes with patience and caution.

The Angus L. Macdonald Bridge will remain open.