Upon completion, the new bridge will feature on-road bike lanes, a multi-use trail, and a pedestrian pathway, improving overall accessibility for pedestrians, cyclists and those who use mobility aids. In addition to that it will also feature new plaza areas for the public to view the harbour, an improved navigation channel for marine vessels, a public art piece, and new public green space.
The Johnson Street Bridge replacement option includes fixed bike lanes with a road surface that is safe, proper sidewalks that are accessible, and a multi-use path that will connect the regional trail system to downtown. The new bridge will improve safety for motorists and access for cyclists and pedestrians, and will be an iconic landmark for the next 100 years.
To be built to a lifeline seismic standard, the bridge would be able to withstand an 8.5 magnitude earthquake, which is the highest standard in the current bridge design code for Canada. It would also be the largest single-leaf bascule lift bridge in Canada. A bascule bridge is a bridge that includes a lift section to provide clearance for boat traffic.
The bridge is scheduled to open for the public in late 2015, and is expected to benefit the communities and the environment in British Columbia. PCL Constructors Westcoast Inc. is the contractor of the project.
The Government of Canada is providing up to $37.5 million in funding towards the project, including $21 million from the Building Canada Fund and $16.5 million through Canada’s Gas Tax Fund. The government has also provided a $10.2 million low-cost infrastructure loan through the Canada Mortgage
and Housing Corporation’s Municipal Infrastructure Lending Program. The remaining bridge replacement costs are funded by the city of Victoria through reallocated capital budgets and electoral approved borrowing.
