Ottawa to transform railway bridge for cyclists and pedestrians

The Canadian capital of Ottawa and its neighbouring city Gatineau are getting a new bridge for cyclists and pedestrians.

In a move that reflects the need for greater access to outdoor spaces and nature, the government of Canada has announced a project to transform an out-of-service railway bridge into a new active pathway for pedestrians and cyclists connecting the city of Gatineau to the nation’s capital, Ottawa.

The project to transform the newly named Chief William Commanda Bridge, formerly the Prince of Wales Bridge, includes the construction of a new timber deck on existing rail lines, creating a pathway on the south side of the bridge between Ottawa and Lemiux Island. In addition, there will be work done on the north side of the structure between the island and Gatineau including a steel cable railing system and lighting as well as work on the bridge’s major structural components.

There will also be multi-use path segments on the approach providing linkages to the bridge via Ottawa’s Trillium Pathway and the NCC Voyageurs’ Pathway in Gatineau, new LED lighting, and 12 benches along the route.

“Transforming the Chief William Commanda bridge into an active transportation crossing will not only link the communities of Ottawa and Gatineau including to Lebreton Flats, it will reduce commute times and provide exciting new opportunities for cyclists and pedestrians who live work and play on both sides of the Ottawa River,” said Ottawa MP Catherine McKenna, federal minister of infrastructure and communities. “The federal investment of over $8.6 million will also help create jobs, take cars off the road and reduce emissions.”

The Canadian government recently announced the country’s first Active Transportation Strategy as well as a $400 million Active Transportation Fund that will explore and implement options to deliver more walking trails, cycling paths and other forms of active mobility.

Not surprisingly, the COVID-19 pandemic has amplified the need for Canadians to have access to more outdoor spaces and enjoy nature. And building active transportation networks of pathways and trails for cycling, walking, hybrid e-bikes and scooters, and wheelchairs gives everyone the opportunity to get out and get active. Not to mention, moves like this improve commute times for local residents, gets cars off the road, and generally makes the world a better place.

The Chief William Commanda Bridge was constructed in 1879 and the superstructure was reconstructed in 1926. The bridge was named after William Commanda, who served as band chief of the Kitigàn-zìbì Anishinàbeg First Nation from 1951 to 1970 and was an Algonquin elder, spiritual leader, and promoter of environmental stewardship.