Public Services and Procurement Canada announced the award of a construction contract worth $40M to M.D. Steele Construction Ltd. a Manitoba-based general contractor, for the rehabilitation of the St. Andrews Lock and Dam (SALD).
“PSPC is pleased to lead and work with all stakeholders on this very important project which will provide a safer, more accessible facility that will ensure that future generations can continue to use and visit this heritage site,” said the Minister of Public Services and Procurement, Anita Anand.
This project will make the bridge more durable and safer to use, and will extend the overall service life of the facility. Other benefits and examples of the work include:
- Replacing the main span deck with wider traffic lanes;
- Increasing the width of the sidewalk;
- Adding accessible ramps on either end of the bridge;
- Repairing and widening the approach spans and the steel support structure to allow for load limits; and
- Preserving the heritage value of the SALD, which is the last remaining Camere-style dam in the world.
The project will improve the transport of goods and services through this area. It is anticipated that this project will stimulate and improve the provincial economy by removing existing speed and load limits, increasing commercial traffic through the area, help local businesses with improved vehicle/pedestrian/cyclist access, and extending the life of a National Historic Site. The construction work will be completed in the fall of 2022.
During construction, at least one lane will remain open to traffic and the community will be advised early of any full bridge closures via Public Notices and Social Media. Full closures will be done during off-peak hours as much as possible.
As part of the Government of Canada’s commitment to reconciliation, this contract includes a mandatory Indigenous Partnership Requirement (IPR). M.D. Steele has committed to creating employment and training opportunities for local Indigenous businesses to participate in the restoration of this National Historic Site.
Featured image: St. Andrews Lock and Dam (PSPC)
