At age 50, Champlain Bridge will be replaced

The group will assess the possibility of building a new bridge or a tunnel to run parallel to the present corridor of the Champlain Bridge. This study will help determine the number of traffic lanes that may be required to fill present and future demand. Engineers will also study how a modern public transportation system can be integrated into the new structure to link downtown Montreal and the South Shore.

The costs of replacing Champlain Bridge will be closely examined and will constitute a vital factor of the contract, because one option being considered is to re-surface the bridge.

Champlain Bridge will soon celebrate its 50th year of existence. It was primarily built with pre-stressed concrete beams supported by concrete piles. Its unique construction, road salt corrosion, and significant truck traffic have all contributed to its aging structure.

Considered one of the busiest and most congested bridges in Canada, the Champlain Bridge accommodates more than 59 vehicles annually. It also has a major lane reserved for buses that connect the South Shore to Montreal.