Pont de la Concorde

Did the name Pierre Dupuy ever cross your mind as you drove across Pont de la Concorde? This bridge, a vital artery connecting Montreal Island to Saint Helen’s Island, carries his name on the avenue leading to it. Pont de la Concorde itself, a steel and concrete giant spanning 690.4 meters across the Saint Lawrence River, stands as a testament to Expo 67. Built between 1964 and 1965, Pont de la Concorde was designed to facilitate access to the world fair from downtown Montreal. Imagine the flurry of activity as people flocked across this very bridge to experience the wonders of Expo 67. From 1967 to 1972, the Expo Express even traversed its length, carrying excited visitors to and from the fairgrounds. Pont de la Concorde is not just a bridge; it’s a symbol. Its name echoes Montreal’s motto, “Concordia salus,” meaning “Prosperity through harmony.” This theme of unity was central to Expo 67, especially given the presence of both the US and USSR pavilions on separate islands, a poignant symbol during the Cold War. Look around. Four lanes of traffic now flow across the bridge, separated by a central line. On the north side, a concrete wall delineates a bike path and a pedestrian walkway, offering a unique perspective on the city and the river. As you continue your journey, remember Pont de la Concorde. It is more than just a passage; it’s a tribute to harmony, a connection to history, and a gateway to Montreal’s vibrant past and present.