Emergency repairs are set to take place over the weekend on the Honoré-Mercier Bridge after a larger-than-expected crack in a steel beam was discovered by officials.
Despite the damage, Quebec’s transport ministry assures motorists that the bridge is safe for use. Louis-André Bertrand, spokesperson for Transports Québec, stated that the repair work required remains the same regardless of the crack’s size, highlighting the resilience of steel in repair processes.
The repair operation is scheduled to commence at 3 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17, and run until 5 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 19, aiming to fully reopen the bridge in both directions with both lanes operational. The bridge, linking Montreal with Kahnawà:ke, has seen one lane closed since Tuesday for damage assessment and repair planning.
Concerns over traffic congestion have arisen due to the lane closure, particularly impacting northbound traffic towards Montreal. The closure adds to existing worries about the bridge’s deteriorating condition, with recent inspections revealing the southbound section’s poorer state compared to its northbound counterpart.
Transports Québec is devising a reconstruction plan for the bridge, currently in the planning stages pending further surveys and studies. While one lane will remain open towards Montreal during the assessment period, delays are expected during peak hours.
To alleviate congestion, tolls on westbound Highway 30 will be suspended on weekdays from 5:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. starting Thursday. Additionally, a temporary bus service, Route 744, has been introduced by ARTM and exo to assist commuters between Châteauguay and Delson.
The temporary bus route includes five stops and aims to provide an alternative travel option during the Honoré-Mercier Bridge repairs. Commuters are advised to check for updates on Québec 511 and explore carpooling, public transit, or alternative routes like the Champlain Bridge.
