EllisDon Appointed as Construction Manager for Little Current Swing Bridge Replacement

📅 3 days ago

The Ontario government has selected EllisDon to manage the construction of the new Little Current Swing Bridge, part of a larger infrastructure initiative aimed at enhancing transportation access to Manitoulin Island.

LITTLE CURRENT, ONT. — The Ontario government has officially appointed EllisDon as the construction manager for the critical Little Current Swing Bridge replacement project, which falls under the request for proposal for the construction manager role. This significant initiative is part of the broader infrastructure efforts in Ontario, particularly focusing on enhancing transportation access to regions such as Manitoulin Island.
The new swing bridge will replace the existing structure located on Highway 6, which has been serving as the sole road connection between Manitoulin Island and the mainland for over a century. The current bridge, which has been in operation for 110 years, is showing its age and requires replacement to ensure the continued accessibility of the island. The project is located in the Town of Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands.
Last fall, the provincial government took a significant step in this project by awarding a $9 million contract to Stantec for detailed design work on the new two-lane swing bridge. This design phase is crucial as it aims to facilitate year-round access to Manitoulin Island, which is heavily relied upon during the peak summer months when approximately 4,500 vehicles cross the bridge each day.
The construction contract amount for the new bridge has not yet been disclosed, but it is part of a larger financial commitment from the province, which includes a $30 billion plan to build, repair, and expand critical transportation infrastructure across Ontario. This strategic investment underscores the government's commitment to improving connectivity and infrastructure resilience in the region.
The replacement of the Little Current Swing Bridge is not only vital for local traffic but also plays a significant role in supporting the economy and tourism on Manitoulin Island. With the new bridge, the government aims to enhance safety and efficiency for all users, thus reinforcing the importance of this project within the broader context of Ontario's infrastructure development agenda.
Construction work on the new bridge is anticipated to begin following the completion of the design phase, with the project timeline set to progress in alignment with the province's infrastructure goals. As of now, the project is scheduled to be monitored closely, with updates expected as milestones are reached in the construction process. This initiative represents a pivotal move towards modernizing Ontario's aging infrastructure, ensuring that vital connections remain operational for years to come.

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