Government of Canada awards contracts to enhance Gatineau-Ottawa crossings
Tashi Farmilo
In a decisive step towards enhancing the infrastructure of the National Capital Region, the Government of Canada has awarded two substantial contracts aimed at revitalising key crossings between Gatineau and Ottawa. This announcement underscores the government's dedication to ensuring the safety and reliability of crucial transit routes.
The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Public Services and Procurement, revealed that a $1.1 million contract has been awarded to Parsons Inc. for the Southern Structures Renewal Project on the Chaudière Crossing. Additionally, a $647,829 contract has been secured by WSP for the Wearing Surface and Girder Coating Renewal Project on the Macdonald-Cartier Bridge.
As the work on the Union Bridge and Hull Causeway of the Chaudière Crossing nears completion, recent inspections have highlighted the deteriorating condition of the southern structures, necessitating immediate rehabilitation. The Southern Structures Renewal Project will focus on the replacement of the Bronson Channel Bridge and the rehabilitation of both the Ottawa Hydro Electric Power Commission Channel Bridge and the Buchanan Channel Culvert.
The Macdonald-Cartier Bridge, which was last rehabilitated in 2016, now requires additional repairs to maintain its integrity. The forthcoming work will address necessary repairs to protect the structure from corrosion, thereby ensuring its safety and prolonging its lifespan.
Construction on both projects is expected to commence in 2025, with potential lane closures anticipated during the construction phases. Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) is collaborating with the cities of Ottawa and Gatineau, along with other stakeholders, to minimise commuting disruptions. Commuters will be kept informed about lane reductions and closures through PSPC's social media platforms and dedicated web page.
“These two crossings are vital connections between Gatineau and Ottawa, serving more than 85,000 vehicles daily. As the custodian of these crossings, we are committed to ensuring they are safe for the travelling public,” said Minister Duclos. “This construction work will establish reliable transportation links for both current and future generations and support the efficient movement of people and goods in the region.”
Yasir Naqvi, Member of Parliament for Ottawa Centre, emphasised the importance of these crossings to the city’s daily life and future development. “Downtown is known as Ottawa's 'front door,' and the bridges over the Ottawa River are the welcome mat for tens of thousands of people who live, work, and visit here every day. Today's announcement from Minister Jean-Yves Duclos will ensure that these two critical links between Ottawa and Gatineau remain safe and secure well into the future. These investments will complement the initiatives outlined in the Downtown Revitalization Task Force report, envisioning a transformed downtown for the benefit of the 30,000 residents and over 600 businesses located here, as well as over 11 million people who visit our city each year.”
Photo caption: The Government of Canada has awarded contracts to Parsons Inc. and WSP to improve the Chaudière Crossing and Macdonald-Cartier Bridge, ensuring safe and reliable infrastructure for the National Capital Region.
Photo credit: Courtesy of the Government of Canada
