The London Beat London, Ontario’s stream of consciousness
After nine months of off-site repair and rehabilitation, the Blackfriars Bridge is now back in place across the Thames River.
“Blackfriars Bridge is one of the oldest and rarest bridges in Canada and an irreplaceable landmark in the Blackfriars/Petersville neighbourhood,” said Mayor Matt Brown. “This structure contributes to the character of our community. Preserving London’s built heritage matters and seeing the structure returned, looking just like it did in 1875, really brings our City’s history to life.”
It took approximately thirty minutes to swing the bridge from the west shore of the Thames River, onto its abutments on east side of the waterway.
Lining up the bridge before carefully lowering it onto its abutments. #LdnOnt pic.twitter.com/twpdA9dDvE
— City of London (@CityofLdnOnt) August 15, 2018
The bridge has landed! #LdnOnt pic.twitter.com/KNslxM7rtR
— City of London (@CityofLdnOnt) August 15, 2018
“We’re proud of the crew and the level of care and attention to detail they’ve maintained throughout the entire process,” said Doug MacRae, Manager of Transportation, Planning and Design at the City of London. “We’re entering the home stretch. We can’t wait to reconnect Ridout Street to Blackfriars Street with a beautifully rehabilitated and reliable bridge later this fall.”
While the bridge is back in position, crews are reminding everyone to stay clear of the construction zone in the upcoming months as they install remaining bridge components and complete roadwork.
Quite the day! 😍 #LdnOnt pic.twitter.com/CXWf2NxebY
— Blackfriars Bridge (@BBFFLdnOnt) August 15, 2018
“Today’s lift reinstated the distinctive bowstring arch trusses but many bridge components still need to be added before the bridge is ready for the public,” said MacRae.
The City will celebrate the Blackfriars Bridge grand opening in November, when work is complete.
For more information and ongoing progress updates, visit blackfriarsbridge.ca.
A success! #LdnOnt #BlackfriarsBridge pic.twitter.com/8GdBseGjY8
— City of London (@CityofLdnOnt) August 15, 2018
