Plans to replace a landmark bridge in Canada’s capital city, Ottawa have taken an important step forward with the approval of a new concept design.
Following consultation with the public, stakeholders, Indigenous communities, and after taking advice from expert panels, the National Capital Commission’s (NCC) board has granted an initial Federal Land Use, Design, and Transaction Approval (FLUDTA) for the Motion concept.
Motion is proposed to replace the existing Alexandra Bridge that links Ottawa and Gatineau. The design is described as “an extraordinary arch bridge inspired by nature and particularly the eel, a native species of the Ottawa River”, with three pairs of arches rising and falling over the river.
The structure would support road and active travel modes, with “generous” separated lanes for vehicles, cycles and pedestrians, ensuring a safe and enjoyable user experience.
The Technical Advisor is now further developing the ‘Motion’ design as the project moves through the procurement process. The definition of key public space elements, including seating, weather protection, lighting, and material, finishes and colour selections are being developed.
The project, which is being delivered by PSPC as owner, is being procured using a Progressive Design & Build model and a Request for Proposals (RFP) is planned for Spring 2025.
The project is expected to create a sustainable interprovincial transportation connection that will prioritise active mobility and highlight the symbolic importance of the site to all Canadians for generations to come.
Martin Knight, managing director of bridge design practice Knight Architects, the lead bridge architect on the project, said: “The replacement of the Alexandra Bridge is hugely significant for Canada and we are very pleased to have reached this important milestone for such a landmark project.
“Combining the disciplines of architecture, design and engineering, Knight Architects specialises in working closely with multi-disciplinary teams from the outset of a project to navigate the technical complexities of bridge and infrastructure design and this is exactly the kind of opportunity we relish.
“By engaging with multiple stakeholders to understand their aspirations and concerns, we strive for optimal solutions while delivering impactful structures that connect and enrich communities and generate lasting value.”
In May 2023 an Arup-led team with Knight Architects as lead bridge architect was appointed as Technical Advisor to develop this unique project. The team has supported Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC), working with the National Capital Commission (NCC) as part of an integrated project team, in coordinating and completing several economic, heritage and environmental studies, as well as developing the conceptual designs of the new bridge.
The concept design will undergo further refinement to integrate, where possible, some of those elements that people appreciated about the other concepts, and mitigate weaknesses identified during the evaluation process.
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