Abstract Manager

The Jacques-Bizard Bridge project is called as and signature bridge by the city of Montreal, estimated at approximately $80 million, is a major project by the City of Montreal aimed at modernizing the only road link connecting the island of île-Bizard to Montreal. This project includes the construction of a new bridge and the transformation of the old bridge into a promenade area, while maintaining it as an emergency exit. The redevelopment of Jacques-Bizard Boulevard, between the Gouin and Cherrier intersections, is also an integral part of the project. The upgrading of the Denis-Benjamin-Viger park’s facilities and protecting more than 500 trees during construction was a major challenge.. Additionally, the project involves relocating public infrastructure from the existing bridge to the new one, including water and electrical networks.

The crucial part of the project was coordinating 11 technical disciplines and various stakeholders all within a very tight urban perimeter. Meticulous coordination was necessary to define the needs of each discipline to avoid conflicts. The design of the road and the traffic phasing during the 3 years of construction required careful coordination to ensure access to the island throughout the construction work, ensuring the safety of all users, due to the high volume of cyclists in the area, it was necessary to build a temporary bicycle path.

Investigations and several surveys helped identify and locate the existing underground infrastructures, particularly regarding the depth of pipes and the planning of corridors for electrical networks, new stormwater system and water supply networks.

Given that the construction project was taking place in water (des Prairies River), which has special requirements, respecting all environmental requirements and permits was also a major element to consider when establishing the construction work phases. During the spring flood of 2023, the cofferdams were submerged, and the river current was quite strong, which delayed some of the work.  The project was highly complex with many constraints, requiring a strong process for resolving conflicts during construction regarding the unforeseen issues, as well working in existing conditions

Finally, asset management was a key element of the project, ensuring the longevity of the infrastructure and its harmonious integration into an urban environment with a rustic ambiance and natural tones, created by an architect commissioned to deliver a signature bridge effect.