Chaudière Crossing remains closed to motorists

For immediate release

Gatineau, Quebec, July 17, 2023 – Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) wishes to advise users that due to construction activities led by the Energy Services Acquisition Program (ESAP), the Chaudière Crossing will remain closed to motorists during the following period: 

• Monday, July 24, to Friday, September 1 

PSPC is extending the current closure of the Chaudière Crossing to allow for other work that supports an important green energy initiative. This extended closure will allow PSPC to take advantage of the lower traffic volume during the summer period as the reopening of the bridge is planned for the beginning of September.

The scheduled construction activities, taking place on Booth Street at the intersection of Vimy Place, adjacent to the Canadian War Museum, are required to install the underground district energy system (DES) piping that will connect the Cliff Energy Centre to the Tunney’s Pasture Energy Centre. 

During construction, the Union Bridge will remain accessible to pedestrians and cyclists. They will be able to bypass the construction area via the multi-purpose path behind the War Museum or near the Mill Street Brew Pub. 

Local access to the Zibi community will be permitted during this period. Motorists will have access to the community via the detour on the Portage Bridge. 

We are committed to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through the ESAP and leading by example by greening our own operations within the capital. ESAP is modernizing the DES that heats 80 buildings and cools 67 buildings in the capital region, including the Parliament buildings. The modernization of the DES will reduce GHGs for heating and cooling, lower operating costs and improve the overall safety of the system. 

By modernizing this system, we are contributing to climate change commitments by transitioning to a low-carbon economy and by stimulating the clean technology sector. 

PSPC encourages users to exercise caution when travelling and thanks them for their patience.