The Government of Canada is moving forward with plans to develop a multimodal bridge in the eastern sector of the National Capital Region, reinforcing its commitment to improved transportation infrastructure, economic vitality, and sustainable mobility. Announced in the 2024 Fall Economic Statement, the project aims to optimize public transit networks, ease downtown congestion by diverting truck traffic, and enhance connectivity between Ottawa and Gatineau.

Pre-Planning Work Underway

On behalf of the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Public Services and Procurement and Quebec Lieutenant, the Honourable Steven MacKinnon, Member of Parliament for Gatineau and Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, joined Maryse Gaudreault, Chairperson for the National Capital Commission (NCC), to confirm the next steps in advancing the Eastern Bridge initiative.

An integrated project office, composed of Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC), the NCC, and a technical advisory team, will oversee the initial phases of development. Key upcoming activities include impact assessments, design planning, site preparation along the Montée Paiement–Aviation Parkway Corridor, and the formulation of a procurement strategy. Depending on the results of environmental assessments and project scheduling, construction could commence between 2032 and 2034.

Enhancing Regional Mobility and Economic Links

The proposed corridor was selected for its minimal footprint and strategic positioning, leveraging existing road infrastructure to facilitate smoother planning and integration. The Eastern Bridge will bolster interprovincial connectivity, offering expanded transportation options, including public transit and active transportation solutions. Additionally, it will provide businesses on both sides of the Ottawa River with greater accessibility, fostering regional economic growth.

Currently, a lack of direct highway access between Ontario and interprovincial bridges forces approximately 13,000 heavy trucks each week to navigate through Ottawa’s downtown core, contributing to congestion, noise, and safety concerns. By introducing a dedicated freight lane, the Eastern Bridge is expected to significantly reduce truck traffic in urban areas, improving road safety and efficiency.

Procurement Process and Public Engagement

To advance the technical planning and procurement framework for the project, a Request for Proposals (RFP) for professional advisory services was issued on December 31, 2024. Firms with relevant expertise are encouraged to submit their proposals, playing a pivotal role in shaping the project’s next phases.

In alignment with the Government of Canada’s commitment to transparency and stakeholder engagement, public consultations will be conducted to gather insights from residents, Indigenous communities, and key stakeholders. These discussions will help ensure that the project meets community needs while minimizing potential disruptions.

As the federal government continues to spearhead interprovincial infrastructure projects, collaborative efforts with provincial and municipal partners will be instrumental in bringing the Eastern Bridge to fruition, ultimately enhancing mobility, economic prosperity, and sustainable urban development in the National Capital Region.

The Honourable Steven MacKinnon Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, Member of Parliament for Gatineau and Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour “This is a great day for the people of Gatineau and the Outaouais. Today, the Government of Canada is taking concrete action to improve interprovincial mobility from east to west in the National Capital Region. The announcement demonstrates our commitment to regional mobility, following our massive investments in the electrification of public transit in Ottawa and Gatineau, the replacement of the Alexandra Bridge, the introduction of the Rapibus and the O-Train, and the planning of the tramway project in the west end of the city of Gatineau. The Eastern Bridge will promote the development of the La Cité development pole, in line with the City of Gatineau’s densification objectives around its main public transit and active transportation routes.”

Maryse Gaudreault Chairperson, National Capital Commission “The NCC is proud to support the Government of Canada in the advancement of this major project, which reflects the evolution of the National Capital Region and will strengthen the dynamism of the communities on both sides of the Ottawa River.”

The Honourable Jenna Sudds Minister of Families, Children and Social Development “Investments in infrastructure are critical to supporting our region’s growth now and for years to come. The Eastern Bridge will significantly reduce the number of heavy trucks passing through downtown Ottawa, alleviating concerns around congestion, noise, and safety risks to vulnerable communities. At the same time, the Bridge will boost economic revitalisation of our downtown core and support the economic development of our city.”

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