A new Jacques-Bizard Bridge is being built to replace the current bridge, which was built in 1966 and will soon reach the end of its useful life. Located a few metres from the current bridge, the new structure will allow 30,000 vehicles to cross each day, making it easier for cyclists and pedestrians to move around.
Here's everything you need to know about this project:
What?
Development of four traffic lanes, one more than on the current bridge;
Construction of a two-way bike path and wider sidewalks;
Redesign of approaches up to the intersections;
Complete reconstruction of the roadway, water and sewer lines, and street lighting;
Reconstruction of electrical networks and cabling;
Redevelopment of Parc Denis-Benjamin-Viger;
Planting of trees and vegetation;
Construction of a lookout in the middle of the bridge;
Installation of urban furniture.
When?
Work began in the Spring of 2022
The new bridge will be put into service in the Fall of 2024
Work is projected to end by the Spring of 2024
Where?
L'Île-Bizard–Sainte-Geneviève;
A few meters east of the current bridge, over the Rivière des Prairies;
On the southern and northern approaches, between Boulevard Gouin Ouest (island of Montréal) and Rue Cherrier (Île-Bizard);
Parc Denis-Benjamin-Viger.
PHOTO: Ville de Montréal
A rendering of the new Jacques-Bizard Bridge
Initial project
In the first phase of the project, the old Pont Jacques-Bizard was going to be converted into a pedestrian bridge once the new bridge was built. This proposal would have retained infrastructures (electrical network, waterworks, and telecommunications services) underneath the old structure.
Since then, the concept of the new bridge has been enhanced. Infrastructures will be moved, and a wider sidewalk and bike path will be created. A four-meter-wide bike path will also ensure that emergency vehicles can get through if lanes of traffic are blocked.
