The Federal Bridge Corporation (FBCL) says both spans of the Blue Water Bridge will be fully operational Tuesday, October 3, two days ahead of schedule.
Senior Communications Specialist Alexandre Gauthier was thrilled to share that the rehabilitation project, which started July 5, has been finished before the original completion date of October 5.
"We know how busy the bridge gets during Thanksgiving Weekend, so finishing by the third is definitely a big win for us and all our users," said Gauthier.
The $4 million dollar project focused on a range of significant improvements to enhance the structural integrity of the original span; some of the components were 85-years-old.
"We made a lot of upgrades. That includes reinforcing some beams, we changed out some old parts, fixed the concrete surface, added water proofing, and we put down new asphalt. That was all on the Canadian side," he said.
Gauthier said the newer span will receive some attention in 2024.
"We're going to be replacing some parts, repairing sidewalks, and laying new asphalt. The second Blue Water Bridge was built in 1997 and still hasn't been repaved, So, it's definitely due for some work," Gauthier said.
While more details will be released in the new year, he said another bridge closure is expected.
"The plan is to close the bridge for some time. I can't say exactly how long, and the exact details at this point, but yes, it will need to be closed for some comprehensive work," said Gauthier.