Kingston’s Third Crossing Bridge W
BY BRETT TODD ork is now well underway on a new bridge in Kingston known as the Third Crossing, a $180 million project that will join the LaSalle Causeway and the Highway 401 overpass as routes over the Cataraqui River. When finished in 2022, this 1.2-kilometre two-lane bridge will span the river from Gore Road in the east end to John Counter Boulevard in the north end, dramatically changing the way in which motorists, pedestrians and cyclists alike move around the city. “The Third Crossing is a key part of Kingston’s vision to be a smart, livable and leading 21st century city,” said Kingston Mayor Bryan Paterson. “It will provide a vital new connecting link for the city, and allow pedestrians and cyclists to explore [ 24 ] stuffmadeandbuilt.ca
the beauty of the Rideau Canal waterway in a whole new way.” City officials have been contemplating an additional route for some 50 years because of issues with the narrow LaSalle Causeway, built in 1917. The new bridge checks off a number of important goals for municipal leaders, including improving business connectivity for commuters and visitors, enhancing access for emergency services, and adding a welcome new option for pedestrians and cyclists.
Local Impact
Economic benefits to the city and region are huge. By the end of July, $5 million had been awarded through 61 local contracts, craftspeople and staff had worked 60,000 hours already, and 20 people had moved to Kingston to work on the project.
Despite disruptions related to the COVID-19 pandemic, construction is proceeding well and is about 25 per cent complete as of September. “The project is still on target for bridge opening at the end of 2022. Steady work has been underway since the beginning of the year, with construction of the rock causeway and trestle bridge to provide temporary construction access across the river now completed,” said Project Manager Mark Van Buren. “Having been deemed an essential worksite, the Third Crossing project continued during the emergency orders provided by the province. The impacts of COVID-19 have been minimal so far; however, the project team continues to remain vigilant.” Work on permanent in-water
