The various steps in replacing the Swing Bridge are expected to take anywhere between five to ten more years to complete due to ongoing consultations, studies, and more.
Last week, Stantec’s regional business leader for transportation Gregg Cooke told Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands council the next step in replacing the Swing Bridge in Little Current will be to complete an environmental assessment study, then get environmental clearance followed by the Ministry of Transportation laying out a schedule.
He says since 2018, Stantec completed the preliminary design and environmental assessment since commissioned by the Ministry of Transportation with the results now available for public review and comment.
He adds maintenance continues to extend its service life as long as possible.
The bridge design has been approved bearing a similar design to the present one, but with double lanes in place to be located a little further west than the present bridge.
Cooke adds the company is now completing and posting the Transportation Environmental Study Report by summer.
Members of the public have until April 30 to review and provide feedback on the proposal.
Review the updates at http://swingbridgestudy.ca