News Roads & Bridges
Modern Construction completes work on $61M bridge in N.B.

Construction work has finished ahead of schedule on the $61-million Petitcodiac River bridge between Moncton and Riverview, N.B.

The bridge opened to the travelling public on Sept. 17, says the province in a news release.

The 240-metre bridge, built by Modern Construction, features four lanes, a three-metre walkway and two lookouts.

Municipalities shared in the costs of other aesthetic enhancements, including the concrete barrier walls, lighting and railings.

The bridge rehabilitation, which began Apr. 5, was part of a $121-million restoration project for the river. The river channel was realigned, the gate structure was decommissioned, and the approaches and bridge connections were completed.

Benefits of the river’s restoration in recent years include an improved fish habitat, better water quality due to increased tidal water volume, and better protection of agricultural land due to about 23 kilometres of new dikes.

“Opening the bridge nearly three weeks early is a testament to the excellent project management by the department, the contractor, Modern Construction, and everyone involved,” says Jill Green, New Brunswick’s transportation and infrastructure minister.

“This three-stage project began in 2008 with a climate change lens. Critical shoreline was protected, dikes and aboiteaux were installed upstream, and fish studies were conducted by Fort Folly First Nation. Many people have come together to make this project a success.”

Additionally, the project has introduced better traffic flow between Riverview and Moncton, an increased recreational trail network and reduced risk of flooding, both upstream and downstream.

Crews will be in the area during the coming weeks doing cleanup, grading and environmental work. A community event will be held to celebrate the naming of the bridge once this work is complete.