The Blackfriars Bridge in London, Ontario, was removed from its place above the Thames River on November 27, 2017. The bridge has been closed to vehicle traffic since 2013 due to structural deterioration. The iconic 65 m long 142 year-old wrought-iron structure, connects Ridout Street North to Blackfriars Street and is the longest working span of that kind in North America.
Dillon has worked with the City of London regarding the Blackfriars Bridge for many years, completing an Environmental Assessment in 2015 to evaluate alternative solutions for the future use of the bridge. Recognizing its heritage value and the value to the community, the preferred alternative includes a one-way eastbound vehicle lane with a westbound cycling lane and sidewalk. Dillon completed the detailed design in 2017 and provided tendering services for the bridge rehabilitation and approach modifications at Ridout Street and Thames Valley Parkway.
The bridge will be restored off-site and is slated to be returned and reopened to public in the Fall of 2018.