Work begins to upgrade Cornwall bridge
March 25, 2019Cornwall Ontario – The Federal Bridge Corporation Limited (FBCL) announced today the commencement of works to demolish the original in-water piers left-over from the replacement of the North Channel Bridge in Cornwall.
Late last year FBCL awarded Bronte Construction a $5 million demolition contract, which will pay for the removal of three in-water piers from the old high-level North Channel Bridge. Early stages of the project include the mobilization of contractor equipment and the installation of temporary fencing. It is anticipated that the demolition of the three remaining in-water piers will be completed in 2019.
The original North Channel Bridge was replaced in 2014 with a modern low-level bridge that connects Cornwall to Cornwall Island in the St. Lawrence River in replacement opened in 2014. Three of the original piers, however, have remained in the water adjacent to the new span. A fourth pier situated on land has been converted into a public lookout and will remain in place.
A separate bridge spans the channel south of the island and leads into New York.
This demolition work is not expected to have any significant disruption to travellers or to the local community.
For environmental protection reasons (such as fish-spawning, river habitat and pollution control), the in-water piers cannot be completely removed, but will be reduced to a height of approximately two metres above water level.
About the Federal Bridge Corporation Limited
FBCL owns, manages and operates international bridges and associated structures in Sault Ste. Marie, Point Edward, Lansdowne (Thousand Islands) and Cornwall, Ontario. FBCL’s mandate is to provide the highest level of stewardship so that its international bridges and associated structures are safe and efficient for users.