The National Capital Commission (NCC) has approved the schematic design of the new Alexandra Bridge, which sets out the overall vision of the project. At a board of directors meeting Thursday, the NCC voted to approve the final design, with now more detailed design development and construction to come as the next steps. The new bridge design moves the current industrial design into the 21st century, with a triple archway spanning across the Ottawa River to connect downtown Ottawa with Gatineau. “It features three arches flowing over the river alluding to the Eels that have long called the Ottawa River home and offering visual interest both above and below the bridge,” the NCC said in a statement. “Two gathering points will provide generous space for people on the bridge deck to enjoy the spectacular views towards Parliament Hill and the Gatineau Hills.” No builder has been awarded the project yet, which will consist of deconstructing the current bridge and building the new design. That decision is expected to be made this spring. Construction is planned to begin in 2028 and is expected to last until 2032. The Alexandra Bridge first opened in 1900. The NCC says the bridge has reached its end of life. The Alexandra Bridge Coalition has advocated against the re-design of the bridge and says they are not happy with the drastic change to the Ottawa River’s landscape. “The coalition believes that the bridge is still maintainable, it could go on for many years. But the authorities think that they can simply forego the heritage value of it,” said Claude Royer, a spokesperson with the Alexandra Bridge Coalition. “I like it,” remarked Ottawa resident Liz Lovis, who visited Kiweki Point Thursday. “It flows, just like the Ottawa River.” “It’s modern. I think reflects probably what people expect from a 21st century bridge versus a 19th century one,” said resident Paul Krisciunas. “It doesn’t capture the esthetic, the spirit of the old Alexandra Bridge, which is an essential part of the landscape here.” Regardless of design, commuters are concerned about what a four-year closure of the crossing into downtown Ottawa will mean. “What I’m concerned about is the way we might lose the bridge for a couple of months or years, and I use it on a daily basis,” said Gatineau reside Jean-Pierre Couture, who uses the bridge to walk to work. “It’s going to be quite a mess to go around and find another way to get by foot to downtown.”
