New footbridge connecting Edmonton, Strathcona County officially opens

The new pedestrian footbridge that connects Edmonton to Strathcona County across the North Saskatchewan River, officially opened on Sept. 12, 2025. (Brandon Lynch/CTV News Edmonton)

The new pedestrian footbridge across the North Saskatchewan River, connecting Edmonton to Strathcona, saw its grand opening on Friday morning.

Amisk Wâciw Âsokan, or Beaver Hills Bridge, is the official name for the collaboration between the City of Edmonton, Strathcona County and the River Valley Alliance.

The bridge connects 167 Avenue in Edmonton and Township Road 540 in Strathcona County and extends trail access on both sides of the river.

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The bridge’s name was gifted by Elder Dr. Jerry Saddleback in honour of the Indigenous language, culture and heritage of the region’s original inhabitants.

Saddleback officially offered his approval of the name, explaining the history of the Beaver Hills area, where the Plains Cree would participate in their sacred ceremonies of trade.

The ceremony celebrating its completion saw turnout from Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi, Strathcona County Mayor Rod Frank, and representatives from River Valley Alliance, Alberta Parks, Fort Saskatchewan, Devon, Parkland County and Sturgeon County.

Executive Director of the River Valley Alliance, Christine Archibald, acknowledged the traditional lands the bridge was built on and both areas’ rich Indigenous heritage.

The bridge itself includes two lookout points, gathering spaces at both ends and shared pathways with naturalized landscaping.

People who passed by the official opening were excited to see it open. Two cyclists vowed to at least consider a 100-kilometre bike ride when the bridge’s path extends from Devon to Fort Saskatchewan.

“This would make things a lot easier if we ever get to that level,” said Evan Slowski.

Both the provincial and federal governments contributed to the $38.6-million project.

The project was completed within budget, according to the city’s news release, between 2023 and August 2025 as part of green strategies from both Edmonton and Strathcona County.

The county also committed to building a parking lot, multi-use trail connection and gathering area along the bridge’s Township Road 540 area.

With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Brandon Lynch