POINT EDWARD, May 23, 2024 – The Federal Bridge Corporation Limited (The FBCL) is reminding the public that the Second Blue Water Bridge (SBWB) rehabilitation project will commence in just a few days, starting on May 29, 2024. This significant project underscores our continuous investment in stewardship. For the first time in over two decades, the SBWB will be closed, while the First Blue Water Bridge (FBWB) will operate with bidirectional traffic to maintain essential operations for commerce and commuters.
The vital rehabilitation work, much of which will occur beneath the bridge, is key to ensuring our high standards of safety and efficiency. By actively managing disruptions, we aim to manage the project’s timeline effectively.
Our joint efforts with the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) are vital, as they will also be conducting their own rehabilitation work in parallel. This coordinated approach enables the execution of crucial maintenance activities on both sides of the border, with carefully considered measures to manage traffic flow effectively.
We are also excited to announce that the FAST Toll Lane, initially expected to close during the project, will remain open. This lane will continue to facilitate expedited crossings for FAST-approved commercial drivers, ensuring efficient traffic flow and minimal disruption for our commercial travelers.
Key Highlights of the Rehabilitation Project:
- Bidirectional Traffic: The FBWB will operate bidirectionally, sustaining traffic flow in both directions, while the SBWB undergoes rehabilitation.
- Wide Load Restrictions: To ensure safe navigation through the construction zone, loads will be limited to less than 3m (10 feet) in width.
- Uninterrupted Toll Service: Toll booth operations will continue to provide uninterrupted service.
- FAST Toll Lane: The FAST Toll Lane will remain open, facilitating expedited crossings for FAST-approved commercial drivers.
- Active Communication: We are committing to consistent updates on the rehabilitation’s progress, allowing for better travel planning for our customers.
Facca Incorporated, the contractor for last year’s FBWB rehabilitation project, will also undertake this vital project. The scope of this year’s project includes concrete sidewalk rehabilitation and main span concrete deck repairs, including waterproofing and repaving of the SBWB. These efforts are geared towards reinforcing the bridge’s structure and future-proofing its integrity.
Karen Richards, Chief Operating Officer of The FBCL, shared: “We are ready and excited to commence the SBWB rehabilitation project. Our team has worked diligently to ensure all measures are in place to minimize disruptions, and we are pleased to provide the FAST Toll Lane to maintain efficient crossings. This project reflects our commitment to maintaining the Blue Water Bridge as a vital link for trade and travel between Canada and the United States.”
We would like to acknowledge the Government of Canada for their funding support in this project. The FBCL is grateful for the patience and understanding from bridge users and the community during this critical work. We are committed to keeping everyone informed and ensuring high service levels throughout the project.
For up-to-date information on the SBWB rehabilitation project, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
For more information:
Alexandre Gauthier
Director of Communications
The Federal Bridge Corporation Limited
communications@federalbridge.ca
ABOUT THE FEDERAL BRIDGE CORPORATION LIMITED
The FBCL owns, manages and operates international bridges and associated structures in Sault Ste. Marie, Point Edward, Lansdowne (Thousand Islands) and Cornwall, Ontario. The FBCL’s mandate is to provide the highest level of stewardship so that its international bridges and associated structures are safe and efficient for users.
The FBCL is on X (Twitter), Facebook, and LinkedIn.