Toronto reopens harbourfront bridge shuttered over safety concerns 5 years ago

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held for the reopening of a waterfront bridge downtown Toronto. CP24's Melissa Duggan speaks with officials.

A harbourfront pedestrian bridge that officials say will soon be Toronto’s “number one selfie spot” has officially reopened ahead of the World Cup after it was closed due to safety issues five years ago.

At a ribbon cutting ceremony on Sunday, Mayor Olivia Chow formally opened the Amsterdam Bridge, located on the waterfront near Queens Quay and Lower Simcoe Street.

“This bridge was given to us 50 years ago to mark our connection, Toronto and Amsterdam,” Chow said.

“Not only does it connect two cities, it also connects the waterfront to the City of Toronto.”

The bridge was shuttered back in 2021 following concerns over safety.

Now, with just weeks to go until Toronto hosts games for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the restored bridge has reopened.

“It’s been a priority of mine as a local councillor,” said Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik, who represents the downtown ward of Spadina-Fort York.

“I’m just so proud and delighted for Torontonians and visitors to enjoy this incredible and iconic view of our waterfront and of the CN Tower and of our city.”

Speaking to CP24 on Sunday, Vic Gupta, CEO of CreateTO, called the bridge a “great pedestrian connection.”

“We are just really proud that we were able to help rebuild and restore it and give it back to the people in what will become probably the number one selfie spot in the city,” he said.