Under a glorious sky, a big crowd turned out this morning to witness the official opening of the Confederation Pkwy. Bridge over Hwy. 403.
The consensus was that the $17-million bridge was worth the wait, and cost.
Mayor Hazel McCallion helped cut the ribbon, but not before she did some exulting.
“We not only built a bridge, but we built a very attractive bridge. (Residents) are all going to want to come to the bridge. And they’re going to get a view of City Centre that is spectacular,” she said.
McCallion noted the bridge was part of the City’s 1981 Official Plan, and one of the final pieces completing the network of road infrastructure into City Centre.
Features of the four-lane bridge include multi-use walkways for pedestrians, bike lanes, landscaped walls and signage on Hwy. 403, innovative blue LED lighting that can be seen from one kilometre away on the highway, and special aluminum handrails.
“The landscaping and signage make this bridge an icon, alerting travellers they’re entering our rapidly-developing City Centre,” said Martin Powell, the City’s commissioner of transportation and works.
Ward 4 councillor Frank Dale, who represents the area, emceed the ceremony.
“It has been exciting watching the bridge being built, knowing it will provide a long-awaited link to the City Centre,” he said. “It connects the neighbourhoods... residents to the north will now be able to comfortably drive, walk or ride their bicycles to the City Centre’s cinemas, restaurants and shopping districts.
“It shows the growth of our community and matches the spirit with its unique aesthetic features.”
The bridge was changed from a three-span to a four-span structure to accommodate the future Bus Rapid Transit facility on Hwy. 403. Since this section of the BRT is the responsibility of GO Transit, the agency chipped in $1.9 million of the bridge’s cost.
GO Transit chair Peter Smith, who lives in Mississauga, noted how frequently he was in the city to participate in openings. In particular, he mentioned the new GO terminal and parking lot at Square One and the Lisgar GO station.
“We’re very proud to be partners with the City of Mississauga on all these projects,” he said.
Even before the bridge was officially declared open, curious residents — parents with children, joggers and cyclists — were on the structure. Retirees Marge and Tom Macdonnell, who live on Huntington Ridge Dr., were among the first pedestrians.
“It’s amazing how the bridge opens up access to the City Centre,” said Tom. “Before, we had to drive and deal with all the congestion. Now we can walk there in about 10 minutes. We think it’s really fantastic.”
They can also take the bus. Mississauga Transit route 68, which goes to Sheridan College, will begin service across the new bridge next Tuesday.
jchin@mississauga.net
