Ontario Construction News staff writer
Construction on the new multi-use pathway that will connect Ottawa and Gatineau over the Ottawa River has been delayed by labour shortages and supply chain issues, the city confirmed last week.
An update from the city of Ottawa blames “external factors” for delaying the $22.6 million project that was originally expected to open this fall.
“Due to external factors occurring this year, including labour shortages and supply chain issues such as continued delivery delays of critical components, as well as a labour union strike and unforeseen conditions, it is anticipated that the multi-use pathway will now be finished in spring 2023,” the city stated.
“Work continues to advance, and the project team is focused on completing as much of the south bridge as possible in 2022.
The following work has been completed or is ongoing:
- Rail-tie replacement on North Bridge
- Bridge deck jacking and bearing removal for North Bridge
- Formwork and concrete placement for pier caps of North Bridge
- Installation of streetlighting poles
- Above-water masonry repair
- Retaining wall installation on Lemieux Island
- Removal of existing deteriorated pier protection
- Under-water masonry repair
- Timber deck installation on South Bridge
In fall 2021, construction began on the Chief William Commanda Bridge multi-use pathway and rehabilitation project that will connect to the City of Ottawa’s Trillium Pathway to the south and the NCC Voyageurs’ Pathway in Gatineau to the north.
The new multi-use pathway is designed to “improve active transportation between Ottawa and Gatineau and will serve as an interprovincial link for cycling commuters, recreational users, and visitors”.