Did you know that the Jacques Cartier Bridge was almost named something else entirely? Originally called the Montreal Harbour Bridge, it was renamed in 1934. This renaming honored Jacques Cartier on the 400th anniversary of his first voyage up the St. Lawrence River.
Here we are at the foot of this iconic structure. The Jacques Cartier Bridge is more than just a way to cross the St. Lawrence River. It’s a symbol of Montreal itself.
Picture this steel giant rising before you. Construction began in 1925 and was completed in 1930. The Dominion Bridge Company undertook this impressive feat. The Jacques Cartier Bridge cost about C$23 million. That’s a significant sum for the time.
The bridge is a cantilever truss design. Its total length spans 3425.6 meters including its approach viaducts. The longest span measures 334 meters. It has five lanes that accommodate approximately 35.8 million vehicle crossings every year. It is one of Canada’s busiest bridges.
Look closely at the four high points. You will see architectural ornaments. These finials resemble the Eiffel Tower. They add a touch of elegance to the bridge’s robust structure.
Originally, the Jacques Cartier Bridge was designed for roads, tramways, and pedestrians. Tramway tracks were installed but never used. In the 1950s, the bridge was modified to accommodate more traffic. An extra lane was added in each direction.
Notice the curve as we approach Montreal. The Jacques Cartier Bridge was nicknamed “the crooked bridge” because of this curve. It was designed to avoid the land of a soap factory owner named Hector Barsalou. He refused the city’s offer for his land.
Take a moment to appreciate the Living Connections lighting system. Installed in 2017, it marks the 150th anniversary of Canada and the 375th anniversary of Montreal. The lights change with the seasons. They also reflect real-time data about Montreal. This data includes traffic, weather, and social media trends. The Jacques Cartier Bridge becomes a canvas of light.
The Jacques Cartier Bridge has seen its share of disruptions. Protesters have climbed the structure. These events often lead to traffic congestion. Suicide prevention barriers have been installed. These are intended to prevent tragedies.
Consider this. The Jacques Cartier Bridge is more than steel and concrete. It connects Montreal to Longueuil. It carries millions of people each year. It stands as a testament to engineering and a symbol of the city.
Before we move on, remember the Jacques Cartier Bridge. Remember its history, its design, and its lights. It is a vital part of Montreal’s identity.