Ste Agathe bridge lane closures start

The $48.6 million Louis Riel Bridge widening and rehabilitation in Ste Agathe is underway, and drivers can expect single lane traffic while major work is being done over the next two years.

When done, both lanes will be wider at 3.7 metres each plus each will have new 1.8-metre shoulders. There will also be a 2.7-metre-wide, separated pedestrian path.

Expected completion is September 2026. Originally built in 1959, the foundation work is intended to make the Provincial Road 305 bridge over the Red River last another 60 years.

Traffic lights will be set up at both ends of the bridge so the one lane can be used for both directions. Drivers will not be able to cross the 305 on Ste Agathe’s Pembina Trail during construction.

People driving east from Highway 75 into town will only be permitted to go forward over the bridge or turn right to head south on Pembina Trail. Westbound drivers will not be able to turn either direction at Pembina Trail.

The trail under the bridge is closed. The crosswalk near École Ste Agathe will stay open.

The province held two public engagement sessions in spring 2023. It offered two similar alternatives to upgrade the bridge. One involved closing the bridge completely and extending its life only 40 years. The 205 survey responders leaned towards the longer lasting option that kept a lane open and cost a little more.

The original estimated cost of this option that was chosen just over a year ago was $25-30 million. Contract work started this August. The province confirmed the $48.6-million pricetag in an Oct. 22 media release.

“Our government is committed to improving infrastructure across the province and will continue to consult with municipalities to identify the highest priority projects.” said Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Lisa Naylor in the release.

“The rehabilitation of the Louis Riel Bridge will improve safety as well as enhance and streamline inter-community travel.”

In this spring’s provincial engagement summary, survey respondents preferred this alternative at 43 percent; 20 percent expressed concerns about safety for pedestrians and cyclists, as well as speed limits; eight percent would prefer the bridge to be constructed at Provincial Road 311 to provide Niverville residents direct access to Highway 75; Six percent stated the bridge is in dire need of repairs without specifying a design preference; and two percent preferred the less expensive option that would completely close the bridge twice for eight weeks, take one-and-a-half years, last only 40 years, and cost an estimated $5 million less (before the actual cost was raised).

“The rehabilitation of the Louis Riel Bridge is an important project for our community and the region. This bridge serves as a critical link for residents, businesses, and agricultural operations, and its modernization will ensure safe and efficient travel for all,” said Ritchot Mayor Chris Ewen in the release.

“We are deeply grateful for the provincial investment in this infrastructure, which honours the legacy of Louis Riel and supports our growth and prosperity for generations to come.”

Information on this project, frequently asked questions and design details can be found on the Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure website at www.gov.mb.ca/mti/projects.html.