Canada and Ontario Support Burgoyne Bridge Replacement Project
December 10, 2010
NEWS
St. Catharines, Ontario – The Burgoyne Bridge in St. Catharines is one step closer to reality thanks to the joint support of the governments of Canada and Ontario.
This announcement was made today by Rick Dykstra, Member of Parliament for St. Catharines, on behalf of the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities; Jim Bradley, Member of Provincial Parliament for St. Catharines, on behalf of the Honourable Bob Chiarelli, Ontario Minister of Infrastructure; and Gary Burroughs, Regional Chair of the Regional Municipality of Niagara.
The governments of Canada and Ontario are each setting aside one-third of eligible project costs, up to a maximum contribution of $18,167,000 each. The Regional Municipality of Niagara will provide the remaining funding. The total eligible cost of this project is estimated at $54.5 million. This project has been identified by federal and provincial governments as a priority for funding consideration under the Building Canada Fund – Major Infrastructure Component.
Federal and provincial funding towards this project is conditional on the successful completion of federal and provincial due diligence review of the project, including analysis of the project business case, and the successful negotiation of a contribution agreement.
Once complete, the new bridge will replace the original structure built in 1915. The proposed replacement project includes: construction of a new concrete structure adjacent to the existing bridge and removal of the existing bridge; construction of an approach road to the realigned structure; reconstruction of two access roads beneath the new bridge; and landscaping and restoration of the construction area in accordance with Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority's requirements. The Region plans to start construction in 2013 and complete the project by the end of 2014.
QUOTES
“This bridge is a critical component of our transportation system. It ties both sides of the city together in St. Catharines and Niagara, and after 95 years it is time for a new bridge. Our Government is proud to support projects that will create jobs and help improve the quality of life for residents in the region for years to come.”
-- Rick Dykstra, MP, St.Catharines
“The replacement of this bridge will not only improve a vital east-west transportation link for businesses, residents and for tourists visiting the Niagara wine region, but will also help create construction jobs for Niagara workers. Ontario's investment is part of our Open Ontario plan that will help build a stronger community and provide economic stimulus to the area.”
-- Jim Bradley, MPP, St.Catharines
“The Burgoyne Bridge is a critical transportation link for residents and visitors to the Niagara region. Replacing this bridge is essential to our region's continued growth and economic development, and we are pleased to be partnering with the Governments of Ontario and Canada to make this project a success.”
-- Gary Burroughs, Chairman, Regional Municipality of Niagara
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