Ridgey McBridgeface didn't make the list of potential names for the new Bow River bridge, but about 100 other suggestions did.

Until Oct. 19, Cochranites are welcome to help narrow down the list to the top three names in each of four categories in phase 2 of the selection process.

The suggestions were accepted from May to September and have been divided into four categories: Cochrane’s past, landmark or location, person or service organization.

Not all names suggested were included on the extensive list.

"I understand there were a lot of joke ones that they didn’t include,” says Mayor Jeff Genung. “Ridgey McBridgeface, or something like that, was one of the popular ones."

That name is part of a joke that is making its way around the globe. It originated in 2016 when James Hand, a former BBC Radio Jersey presenter, jokingly suggested Boaty McBoatface as the name of a British research vessel that was eventually named the RRS Sir David Attenborough (although they paid homage by giving the name Boaty McBoatface to their lead boat). The public liked his suggestion and it quickly became the most popular choice in an online poll.

In the States, they’ve had similar fun with the suggestion of Bridgey McBridgeface and a growing number have popped up around the globe, including Horsey McHorseface, Trainy McTrainface and Floaty McFloatface.

The town, though, has a very specific policy to guide the naming of streets and public areas and those not fitting any of the categories were discarded.

Those wanting to help the town narrow down the choices can vote online at www.letstalkcochrane.ca.

Hard copies will also be available to complete at the Cochrane RancheHouse, FCSS, Seniors on the Bow and the public library.

Next, council will review the top three picks in each category and then select three finalists for one final public vote.

The naming process incorporated is the most extensive public consultation used to name a town property. It came about after council chose to go public rather than adopt the name “Veterans Bridge” proposed by councillors Morgan Nagel and Alex Reed in January.

Whatever name is chosen it will be some time before it appears on the long-awaited crossing. Bridge construction is now underway and is expected to take a couple of years to complete.