3 design concepts unveiled for new Alexandra Bridge connecting Ottawa-Gatineau

Three design concepts have been unveiled to replace the aging Alexandra Bridge connecting Ottawa and Gatineau over the Ottawa River.

Three design concepts have been unveiled to replace the aging Alexandra Bridge connecting Ottawa and Gatineau over the Ottawa River.

The National Capital Commission's Board of Directors received an update on the Alexandra Bridge replacement on Tuesday, ahead of stage 2 of public consultations on Wednesday and Thursday.

"The Alexandra Bridge serves as a vital link within the national capital region; it is an important part of the region's overall transportation network," Stefan Dery, Public Services and Procurement Canada's director general of infrastructure asset management, told the NCC.

"Despite best efforts to maintain the Alexandra Bridge, which is over 120 years of age, it has reached the end of its life and needs to be replaced. The Alexandra Bridge replacement will provide long-lasting benefits to the communities on both sides of the Ottawa River.

"The entire region will benefit from a safer, reliable and sustainable interprovincial bridge that will improve vehicle traffic, provide dedicated pedestrian and cyclist spaces, commemorate the heritage of the existing Alexandra Bridge, provide a safe and accessible route for drivers, pedestrians, cyclists and sightseers and provide generous space, well-defined and separated lanes for vehicles and active transportation."

The three design concepts are Echo, Rendez vous, and Motion. A report says the titles "encapsulate the core inspiration behind each concept and serve as key reference points."

"This is the reinterpretation of the existing historic structure," staff said. "It is not a replica."