Bridge replacements on Queensway an investment for local commuters

The Ontario government has completed work to replace six bridges at three locations along Highway 417 in Ottawa. The new bridges are part of the government’s plan to build Ontario with investments in highways, roads and bridges, improving safety, reducing gridlock and supporting economic growth across the province.

“These rapid bridge replacements will help ensure that we can keep people and goods moving throughout the Ottawa region for years to come,” said Premier Doug Ford. “As our population and economy grow, our government is investing hundreds of millions of dollars in Ottawa’s road and highway system. We’re getting it done, building the infrastructure this region needs to reach its full potential.”

The Ottawa bridges improvement project includes the rapid replacement of both eastbound and westbound bridges at five locations along Highway 417 from Island Park Drive to Kent Street. To date, the Booth Street bridges, Rochester Street bridges and most recently, the Bronson Avenue bridges, were successfully replaced using rapid replacement technology. Work to replace the Percy Street Bridges will take place in August, followed by the Preston Street Bridges in 2024.

“Eastern Ontario is one of the fastest growing regions in the entire province and it has never been more important to build the critical infrastructure we need for our future,” said Caroline Mulroney, Minister of Transportation. “The work our government is doing to build new bridges along Highway 417 is another step forward in our plan to fight gridlock and get goods to market faster in communities across Ontario.”

The Ontario government is investing approximately $425 million toward highway and bridge improvements in the Ottawa area. Since 2018, 10 infrastructure projects have been completed, with another five underway to improve safety and keep roads and bridges in a state of good repair.

“Today’s announcement demonstrates the significant investments our government is making to improve local trans- portation infrastructure right here in Ottawa,” said Nepean MPP Lisa MacLeod. “Highway 417 is a critical link for the region and by ensuring it remains in a state of good repair, we are growing the economy, alleviating gridlock and reducing commute times for residents.”

Approximately 184,000 vehicles travel along Highway 417 in Ottawa every day.

“Highway 417 is a pivotal provincial corridor for Ottawa residents and I’m grateful for the support, funding and col- laboration of the Ontario government to achieve these important bridge replacements,” said Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe. “These investments are a once in a generation opportunity to improve key transportation infrastructure for our growing population, bolster our local economy and better connect our communities.”

The bridges replacement work is being completed by Kiewit-Dufferin Midtown Partnership and includes operational improvements such as noise barrier replacement and construction, lighting, and storm sewers along Highway 417 from Island Park Drive to the Kent Street overpass.

“Ottawa is a world-class city that deserves a reliable transportation network to help people get where they need to go. By continuing to invest in vital infrastructure, our government is delivering on its promise to the people of Ottawa to improve road safety and build strong communities for generations to come,” commented Goldie Ghamari, MPP for Carleton.

Highway 17/417 is part of the TransCanada Highway and the longest provincial highway in Ontario, stretching for more than 1,900 kilometres from the Ontario/Manitoba border to the Quebec border in eastern Ontario.

The ministry is undertaking a Preliminary Design and Environmental Assessment (EA) study for the rehabilitation/replacement of seven additional bridges at four locations along the Ottawa Queensway (Highway 417) between Metcalfe Street and Main Street.