Tuesday, February 17, 2026
The Government of New Brunswick announced that it is beginning planning and design work for a new bridge between Île-de-Lamèque and Shippagan with an investment of $1.5 million in 2026-27.
“Starting work on a new bridge connecting Île-de-Lamèque and Shippagan is about making everyday life easier and safer for the people who rely on it,” said Premier Susan Holt. “This bridge connects families, workers and businesses, and it plays a vital role in keeping communities on Île-de-Lamèque and across northeastern New Brunswick moving. I’m proud that our government is investing in infrastructure people and our economy depend on.”
This investment will fund an environmental impact assessment, required permits, stakeholder consultation and technical design. It is expected that pre-design work will be completed this spring.
“With planning now underway for the new bridge, we look forward to working hand in hand with local stakeholders and communities to ensure their voices are heard and finding the right solution for the community,” said Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Chuck Chiasson. “As we prepare for a new bridge, we are committed to maintaining the existing structure to ensure that it remains a safe and reliable crossing in the area. That’s why our government has also committed $1.5 million in this year’s capital budget for rehabilitation work.”
The existing bridge has been in service since 1959 and is nearing the end of its useful life. As the only bridge in the province with a lift span, it poses a unique challenge for both its renewal and its ongoing upkeep.
“It is with a wave of pride that I welcome this announcement, which is excellent news for our region,” said Shippagan Mayor Kassim Doumbia. “This project, long awaited by the community and the entire Acadian Peninsula, meets a real and priority need. This announcement marks a crucial step and paves the way for the construction of a new bridge linking Shippagan to Lamèque Island, the only land link uniting the same people at the heart of two communities.”
While construction of the replacement structure is not expected to start until 2028, Chiasson said the commencement of planning, consultation and early design work marks an important milestone in replacing this vital transportation link.
“This announcement marks a decisive step for the municipality of Île-de-Lamèque,” said Île-de-Lamèque Mayor Bernard Savoie. “We are finally seeing an essential project come to fruition for the safety, quality of life and economic future of our community. On behalf of the municipal council and all the citizens of Île-de-Lamèque, I sincerely thank Mrs. Holt’s government for this investment and for listening to our concerns.”
Featured image: (Government of New Brunswick)
