Abstract Manager

A feasibility study was undertaken to establish preferred design options to replace the current temporary bridges at Dunn Avenue and Dowling Avenue with a long-term solution. The bridges provide key waterfront connections over the GO Transit Lake Shore West corridor and Gardiner Expressway. The Dowling Avenue bridge accommodates pedestrians and cyclists only, while the Dunn Avenue Bridge accommodates pedestrians, cyclists and motor vehicles.

The feasibility study evaluated alternative structure types, alignments and cross sections, as well as considered ways to improve pedestrian and cyclist experience, accessibility, safety countermeasures, traffic operational improvements, active transportation connectivity, cultural heritage, landing areas and public space. Engagement with stakeholders conducted throughout the project provided valuable insight into existing conditions, constraints and design features. Several key themes emerged from these activities and were used to guide the development of the concepts.

At Dunn Avenue, a new through-plate girder bridge is proposed, inspired by the original structure type and designed in a “clearly modern yet understated” way that is respectful of the original structure’s heritage attributes. It also serves as a functional means of separating the different modes of transport on the new wider bridge: vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians. The simple, low-scale design and proportion are well-suited to the residential and railway context.

At Dowling Avenue, a new through-plate girder bridge is proposed for the span over the railway, inspired by the original structural type, along with a contrasting “enhanced truss” structural type for the span over Gardiner Expressway, with a more prominent “eye-catching” architectural expression, implemented in a way that is integrated with the railway span.

The new bridges will create distinctive yet integrated new gateways to the existing residential neighbourhoods. New approach plazas on both sides of Dunn and the north side of Dowling will create inviting new public spaces and transition between the residential neighbourhood and the bridges and waterfront. While it is still at the conceptual stage, these areas could include seating, heritage interpretation, enhanced paving materials, a bike share station, new naturalized plantings and public art. The proposed design concepts are sympathetic to the original structures while enhancing safety, functionality and the user experience.