The Federal Bridge Corporation Ltd. Announces the Start of the Second Blue Water Bridge Rehabilitation Project
March 28 2024 - 10:00AM
The Federal Bridge Corporation Limited (The FBCL) is announcing the
Second Blue Water Bridge (SBWB) rehabilitation project, set to
start on May 29, 2024. In keeping with our continuous investment in
stewardship, for the first time in over two decades, the SBWB will
be closed, while the First Blue Water Bridge (FBWB) will operate
with bidirectional traffic to maintain essential operations for
commerce and commuters.
The vital rehabilitation work, much of which will
occur beneath the bridge, is key to ensuring our high standards of
safety and efficiency. By actively managing disruptions, including
extending work hours into nights and weekends, we aim to manage the
project’s timeline effectively.
Our joint efforts with the Michigan Department of
Transportation (MDOT) are vital, enabling the execution of crucial
maintenance activities on both sides of the border with considered
measures to manage traffic flow.
Key Highlights of the Rehabilitation Project:
- Bidirectional
Traffic: The FBWB will operate bidirectionally, sustaining
traffic flow in both directions, while the SBWB undergoes
rehabilitation.
- Wide Load
Restrictions: To ensure safe navigation through the
construction zone, loads will be limited to less than 3m (10 feet)
in width.
- Uninterrupted Toll
Service: Toll booth operations will continue to provide
uninterrupted service.
- Active Communication:
We are committing to consistent updates on the rehabilitation’s
progress, allowing for better travel planning for our
customers.
Facca Incorporated, the contractor for last year’s
FBWB rehabilitation project, will also undertake this vital
project. The scope of this year’s project includes concrete
sidewalk rehabilitation and main span concrete deck repairs,
including waterproofing and repaving of the SBWB. These efforts are
geared towards reinforcing the bridge’s structure and
future-proofing its integrity.
Natalie Kinloch, CEO of The FBCL, shared: “The
commencement of the SBWB rehabilitation project reflects our
ongoing efforts to uphold and enhance the infrastructure essential
for international travel. Strategic planning and execution
underline our commitment to maintaining the Blue Water Bridge as a
vital link for trade and travel between Canada and the United
States.”
We would like to acknowledge the Government of
Canada for their funding support in this project. The FBCL is
grateful for the patience and understanding from bridge users and
the community during this critical work. We are committed to
keeping everyone informed and ensuring high service levels
throughout the project.
For up-to-date information on the SBWB
rehabilitation project, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and
LinkedIn.
For more information:Alexandre
GauthierSenior Communications SpecialistThe Federal Bridge
Corporation Limitedcommunications@federalbridge.ca
ABOUT THE FEDERAL BRIDGE CORPORATION
LIMITEDThe FBCL owns, manages and operates international
bridges and associated structures in Sault Ste. Marie, Point
Edward, Lansdowne (Thousand Islands) and Cornwall, Ontario. The
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.
The FBCL is on X (Twitter), Facebook, and
LinkedIn.