Overview
How We Got Here
In April 2009, the results of an overall condition assessment – [PDF 7.2MB] of the Johnson Street Bridge identified extensive corrosion in steel structural beams, obsolete mechanical and electrical systems and significant seismic vulnerability [Video WMV 6.8MB]. The comprehensive review of the bridge noted substantial investment would be required in the bridge by 2012 to avoid further deterioration, increasing operational costs and possible closure.
Council decided to replace the bridge in April 2009 after considering many factors including safety, accessibility, improved pedestrian and cycling amenities, heritage values, sustainability and traffic and business disruption. The original decision to proceed with the Replacement Option was undertaken to seize the opportunity for 2/3s senior government funding for the $63 million Project. The timing of the funding required the city to act quickly to meet a March 2011 deadline for substantial project completion.
Since the completion of the Alternative Approval Process, City Council has asked staff to bring forward more information on the rehabilitation option so they and the community will have an “apples-to-apples” comparison of both options before moving forward towards an October 2010 referendum.
Public involvement is essential to this project and widely respected residents of Greater Victoria comprise the Johnson Street Bridge Citizen Advisory Panel which has played an important role throughout the bridge project. The Panel will continue to provide input to staff as the project evolves and as we gather more information on the rehabilitation option. There will also be a variety of opportunities for residents to learn more about the bridge as it proceeds and provide input as bridge refurbishment designs are being considered.
The engineering firm MMM Group Limited will oversee the project as project managers. MMM Group provides engineering expertise in managing bridge construction, with previous experience designing and managing completion of 12 moving bridges. MMM Group have also In addition to engineering expertise, the consultants include an architectural and sustainability design team. A focus on sustainability and design components in the early stages will provide greater certainty and reduced risk to the project.
