A 24 hour closure of the Johnson Street Bridge to vehicle traffic is necessary in order to install the new pedestrian bridge that will cross above Esquimalt Road just east of Harbour Road.
The placement of the new pedestrian bridge will take place from Friday, Aug. 19 at 6 p.m. until Saturday, Aug. 20 at 6 p.m. During this time, people walking or riding bikes will still be able to access and cross the existing Johnson Street Bridge, but will be detoured around the construction site at the Esquimalt/Harbour intersection.
According to the city, the closure to vehicle traffic is necessary as the installation of the new pedestrian bridge requires a large crane that takes up the entire width of Esquimalt Road.
Traffic control staff will be coordinated on both sides of the Johnson Street Bridge to assist drivers and other road users during the closure period.
Emergency services and B.C. Transit has also been notified. Marine traffic will not be impacted by the work.
Information boards will be placed throughout the affected areas on the east and west sides of the bridge to reroute vehicles.
Drivers are encouraged to use alternate routes. Some noise and lights around the construction area should also be expected during the 24 hour period.
The bridge closure has been scheduled to take place on a Friday during lower traffic volume periods, to minimize impacts to road users.
The new pedestrian bridge marks a significant milestone in the project. Once opened, it will serve as an important regional walking and cycling route, providing the future connection between the Galloping Goose Trail and the E&N Trail.
Once installed, the new pedestrian/cyclist bridge will be five metres (16 feet) wide and 34 metres (113 feet) long.
The pedestrian bridge will be painted gray to match the colour of the new Johnson Street Bridge.