Bishop’s Bridge deck work begins May 7

The Quebec Department of Transport, Sustainable Mobility and Transportation Electrification is advising motorists that work will be begin May 7, to replace the deck of the Bishop's Bridge over the Massawippi River on College Street in Lennoxville. As a result of the work, the 18-tonne load restriction in effect since January 26, 2018 will be lifted and the surface will be improved.

Nature and duration of work

In March, the Ministry had to carry out temporary work on the bridge due to the deteriorated condition if the road surface. The replacement of the deck will completely eliminate the problems that have persisted despite recurring intervention by the department since the beginning of winter. The work will be done at the earliest possible moment, weather permitting, to avoid further deterioration of the roadway.

Work is scheduled to extend until July, and will result in the following obstacles;

• One out of two lanes will be closed for two weeks, starting May 7;

• The bridge will be completely closed for six weeks starting May 21;

• The reopening of one lane out of two as of July 2.

These inconveniences may be modified or canceled due to operational constraints or weather conditions. Details of the work site will be transmitted by notice of obstruction and be available by calling Quebec 511.

Impacts on traffic and detours

Prior to the complete closure of the bridge, the Department will proceed

with the installation of the required signage in order to indicate the detour route to take. The department has collaborated with the City of Sherbrooke to set up a detour on the municipal network to accommodate as many users as possible:

• For public transit, school and transit buses, the suggested route follows: St. Francis St. - Bowen St. South - Highway 216 (Galt Street) - Highway 143 (Wellington South) - Highway 108 (College Street).

• For trucks,: Highway 108 - Highway 410 - Highway 10 - Highway 610 - Highway 112 - Highway 253 - Highway 108. Please note that the City of Sherbrooke will permit the movement of trucks of four or fewer axles on St. Francis Street.

• For pedestrians: a sidewalk on either side will be kept accessible during the construction period and pedestrians will be able to circulate safely.

Once work is completed, motorists will be able to use the bridge again. The Ministry is aware of the inconvenience caused by the work, and thanks residents and the motorists for their understanding.