The City of Montreal is proud to announce two major projects for the borough of Île-Bizard-Sainte-Geneviève. First, the concept for the new Jacques-Bizard Bridge has been unveiled. The new structure will replace the old bridge, which is used daily by 30,000 vehicles and is nearing the end of its life. Mayor Valérie Plante's administration is thus taking action to avoid an event similar to that of the Île-aux-Tourtes Bridge and guaranteeing that the citizens of Île-Bizard have a safe link. The City has also announced that it has exercised its right of pre-emption on two pieces of land located on Île-Bizard, thus consolidating the Grand Parc de l'Ouest.
New Jacques-Bizard Bridge
The Jacques Bizard Bridge, the only permanent link serving Île-Bizard, will reach the end of its useful life in 2026. The concept announced today calls for the construction of a new bridge next to the old one to accommodate four lanes of traffic, as well as a widened sidewalk and two-way bike path, allowing all users to enjoy the borough's exceptional environment.
The project also includes the planting of 165 trees, the redevelopment of Denis-Benjamin-Viger Park, the installation of distinctive street furniture and the addition of a gazebo. Public art will also be installed at each end of the bridge.
"This is not just a new bridge that we are unveiling, but a complete new development that will substantially improve the quality of life of the residents of Île-Bizard, and will allow all Montrealers to discover this enchanting area. We are particularly proud to offer an infrastructure that will allow safe travel for all users, including pedestrians and cyclists. The entire project is being designed with a special emphasis on architectural design to highlight the area's landscape features and to reflect the needs and aspirations of the population for years to come," said Eric Alan Caldwell, who is responsible for mobility on the executive committee.
"For more than a decade, the new bridge project has generated enthusiasm among the population of Île-Bizard. Our administration has made it a priority, and our concerted efforts allow us to unveil a concept that will become a signature of our borough, while allowing more active travel for all Montrealers," added Normand Marinacci, Mayor of the borough of L'Île-Bizard-Sainte-Geneviève.
Work will begin in the Spring 2022. The new bridge will be put into service in 2023. Traffic will be maintained throughout the construction period.
Two new lots added to Grand Parc de l'Ouest
The City of Montreal has exercised its right of pre-emption and acquired two properties on Île-Bizard to protect and consolidate the Greater West Island Park. These lands total more than 145,500 square metres. They were acquired for $1.45 million, plus tax, from the R. Howard Webster Foundation.
"By acquiring these two properties, our administration is once again taking a concrete step towards sustainable development. Our actions allow us to come closer to reaching our target of protecting 10% of the land in the Montréal agglomeration. Currently, 8% of the territory is protected. Like the recently announced adapted landscape of Île-Bizard, the Grand Parc de l'Ouest will be a springboard for Montreal's green revival. Montreal is making history with the creation of this major new park, which will eventually become the largest municipal park in Canada," explained Robert Beaudry, who is responsible for housing, real estate strategy, major parks and Jean Drapeau Park on the executive committee.
"Sustainable development is at the heart of our administration's priorities. By acquiring two properties located on the banks of the Rivière des Prairies, we are protecting rich wetlands, contributing to the resilience of our territory in the face of climate change and consolidating the Grand Parc de l'Ouest. This is a strong gesture that will contribute concretely to the quality of life of Montrealers," said Normand Marinacci.
The territory of the Great Western Park includes the nature parks of Anse-à-l'Orme, Bois-de-L'Île-Bizard, Cap-Saint-Jacques and Rapides-du-Cheval-Blanc, as well as the Bois-de-la-Roche agricultural park, in addition to including various sectors of interest. The Great Western Park is part of the City of Montreal's Climate Plan.
To download the photos, please click on the link: https://we.tl/t-K5rxrWaUqV
