No. H010/02For release - February 4, 2002
OTTAWA — Bob Kilger, MP, (Stormont-Dundas-Charlottenburgh) on behalf of Transport Minister David Collenette, today announced that an environmental and financial assessment for Cornwall's North Channel Bridge has begun. The Federal Bridge Corporation Limited (FBCL), which will work closely with Transport Canada on this project, has selected McCormack Rankin Corporation to undertake the assessment, which is expected to be completed by December 2002.
"This environmental and financial assessment will look at possibilities for the future maintenance and operation of the North Channel Bridge, including the possible construction of a new, low-level bridge," said Mr. Kilger.
"The FBCL will work closely with Transport Canada in undertaking this assessment to identify the costs, benefits and impacts of replacing the 40-year-old bridge. In addition, full stakeholder consultation will take place with the leaders of the Akwesasne community and the City of Cornwall," said Mr. Collenette.
In 1961, a high level bridge was built over the North Channel of the St. Lawrence Seaway, in order to provide an all-Canadian option for Seaway navigation. On May 5, 2000, Mr. Collenette announced that an all-Canadian option for the Seaway was no longer necessary in order to allow the FBCL and communities to consider which options they may want to pursue for the bridge. Following this, the FBCL undertook a study to determine the cost implications of replacing the existing high-level bridge that connects Cornwall and Cornwall Island with a low-level bridge. Upon review of that report, Transport Canada determined that a full environmental and financial assessment was necessary.
The cost of this assessment will be borne by the FBCL. Once the assessment is complete, Transport Canada will review the results and decide upon an appropriate course of action.
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Contact:
Anthony PolciDirector of CommunicationsOffice of the Minister, Ottawa(613) 991-0700
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