Achi news desk-
Next week, crews will begin rehabilitation of the Mission Bridge, a 108-year-old structure spanning the Elbow River at the southern end of Calgary’s Mission District.
The project, which has a budget of $17.8 million, will see the closure of both lanes of traffic on the bridge at various times, and is necessary to upgrade the bridge and extend its life.
Starting on May 13, the westbound lane of the bridge will be closed and the eastbound side of the bridge will be modified to allow one northbound lane and one southbound lane.
During this initial stage of construction, cyclists will be required to share the road with vehicles while pedestrians can use the eastern side of the bridge.
Elbow Island will be inaccessible from the west side of the bridge during this time, officials said.
Once this work is complete in late summer, crews will move to the east side of the bridge, with the west side being modified to allow one northbound and one southbound lane.
As before, cyclists will be expected to share the road with drivers while pedestrians will be restricted to the west side of the bridge.
In the fall, the city says the entire bridge will be closed to vehicles for extensive work and is scheduled to reopen sometime in the spring of 2025.
During this time, cyclists and pedestrians will still be allowed to cross.
City officials say they will do everything they can to mitigate any delays during construction, but are asking anyone using the bridge to follow all construction signs posted posting.
“We are working hard to minimize the impacts on bridge users, area residents and nearby local businesses,” said Max Lacroix, project manager and senior structural engineer in charge of the project.
“We are reducing the number of road closures before Stampede in order to reduce the effects of construction during this busy period. Our team continues to be active in the community, carrying out outreach to businesses and residents in the area.”
The work on the Mission Bridge is also expected to improve accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists.
Anyone using the bridge as a commuter is encouraged to allow extra time during the construction period or consider alternative routes.
Anyone rafting on the Elbow River should be aware that although they are allowed to travel under the bridge, they will need to watch for any posted diversion signs to help them avoid danger.
