Perhaps, you can still hear the echoes of 159000 daily commuters. This is the story of the Champlain Bridge. It was a vital artery connecting Montreal to its South Shore suburbs. Opened in 1962 the Champlain Bridge quickly became one of Canada’s busiest bridges.
Picture this. Six lanes of traffic thrumming across the Saint Lawrence River. Think of buses using a reserved lane during rush hour. The Champlain Bridge was more than just steel and concrete. It was a lifeline for countless commuters.
But time as it always does takes its toll. Montreal’s harsh climate of wintry cold and summer humidity relentlessly attacked the Champlain Bridge. Salt used for de-icing caused corrosion of the steel and concrete. The Champlain Bridge began to decay. Despite constant monitoring and repairs, the bridge’s condition worsened.
Did you know that in 2013 a crack was discovered in a critical part of the Champlain Bridge’s superstructure? One lane closed. Emergency repairs were put in place. A 75-ton external beam called the super-beam was installed to reinforce the structure.
The Canadian government recognized the need for a new bridge. Construction began in 2015. The original Champlain Bridge closed in 2019 after 57 years of service. Demolition began promptly. The Champlain Bridge was designed by Philip Louis Pratley and Henry Hugh Lewis Pratley. Several companies constructed it including Atlas Construction Company Limited and Dominion Bridge Company.
The replacement bridge officially named the Samuel-De Champlain Bridge stands just north of its predecessor. This new bridge is a cable-stayed structure built to last 125 years. It is wider than the original Champlain Bridge. It contains dedicated lanes for buses cyclists and pedestrians. The Samuel-De Champlain Bridge also includes a light metro system.
The Champlain Bridge was more than just a crossing. It was a symbol of Montreal’s growth and connection to its surrounding communities. Its replacement the Samuel-De Champlain Bridge carries on this legacy. It ensures safe and efficient passage for generations to come. The Champlain Bridge may be gone but its story remains.