Friday, October 10, 2025
The Government of Ontario awarded a contract for the detail design of a new two-lane bridge that will replace the Little Current Swing Bridge on Highway 6 in the Town of Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands, that will provide year-round access to the provincial highway network.
“As Manitoulin Island’s only road crossing, the Little Current Swing Bridge has been a crucial link for families, workers and businesses for over a century,” said Premier Doug Ford. “By building a new and wider bridge, we’re supporting the community’s continued economic growth and ensuring residents have reliable year-round access to our province’s highway network for the next 110 years.”
Stantec Consulting Ltd. was awarded the detail design contract.
As the only road crossing to Manitoulin Island, the 110-year-old existing bridge will be replaced with a new two-lane bridge, a pedestrian walkway and bike lane. The government is investing more than $200 billion through its plan to build Ontario, including historic investments in road and highway infrastructure in Northern Ontario to support economic growth, help drivers get around safely and keep workers on the job.
“Our government is investing in the critical infrastructure that keeps Ontario moving,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. “With detail design underway, we’re taking the next step to get a new bridge built, improving safety and reliability for residents and businesses in the North, while supporting good-paying jobs and economic growth.”
The new two-lane bridge is part of Ontario’s $30 billion plan to build, repair and expand critical transportation infrastructure across the province.
“The Little Current Swing Bridge is not only an iconic landmark in the community, but also a vital link for residents, tourists, businesses and emergency services in accessing Manitoulin Island,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “Our government is investing in the replacement of this bridge to bring a key piece of the past into the future — making travel easier, keeping Manitoulin Island connected and ensuring people and goods can move safely, efficiently and reliably in the North.”
“I am happy to hear Premier Ford’s announcement that the provincial government is moving forward with the detailed design of the replacement swing bridge. Our community is thrilled by the efforts to complete this project. People will benefit from an improved, safe and reliable bridge that is the only year-round access point to Manitoulin Island,” said Al MacNevin, Mayor of the Town of Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands.
Featured image: (Government of Ontario)
