Victoria Bridge Environmental Assessment

Background

Victoria Bridge is located on Ridout Street South, and spans the South Branch of the Thames River, just south of Horton Street. The bridge, built in 1926 with the last major rehabilitation work completed in 1956, is in need of significant repairs. 

Ridout Street South carries 12,000 vehicles per day and is a primary cycle and pedestrian route, connecting Old South to the downtown core and the Thames Valley Parkway.

This Environmental Assessment was initiated to evaluate rehabilitation or replacement alternatives for the bridge to address its general structural and the need to safely accommodate all road users.

A variety of solutions were explored through the Environmental Study Report to address the challenges in the area, and it was ultimately determined that the bridge should be replaced and the new structure should include dedicated bicycle lanes for increased rider safety.

Current status

The Environmental Assessment is complete, and Council approved the plan in 2018. Construction is expected to begin in 2022.

Study area

The project study area encompasses the area bounded by York Street to the north, Craig Street/Carfrae Street to the south, Richmond Street to the east and Wortley Road to the west. It also includes portions of the downstream and upstream sections of the Thames River. For more information, please contact Karl Grabowski at kgrabows@london.ca or 519-661-2489, extension 5071.

 

Project Timeline

2017: Start of the Environmental Assessment

The City sent out a notice of commencement to residents, business owners and interested stakeholders to notify them of the Environmental Assessment's start.

April 2017: First Public Information Centre

A Public Information Centre was scheduled for April 2017 at St. James Westminster Anglican Church - interested parties were encouraged to attend. They provided comments specific to the potential Victoria Bridge rehabilitation or replacement to the project team, which were critical to the development of this environmental assessment.

November 2017: Second Public Information Centre

A Public Information Centre was scheduled for November 2017 at St. James Westminster Anglican Church. The team provided all interested parties with an update on the project and listened to feedback that was critical to shaping the recommendations provided by the Environmental Study Report.

July 2018: Environmental Study Report completed

The Environmental Assessment is now complete, and Council approved the plan in 2018.

Last modified:Tuesday, April 09, 2024