New bridge spans mark next phase of Brant’s Crossing Bridge Replacement Project

BRANTFORD, ON – The City of Brantford is preparing to begin installation of the new bridge spans as part of the next phase of the Brant’s Crossing Bridge Replacement Project.

Funding for this project is provided in part by the Government of Canada through the Community stream of the Build Communities Strong Fund to support the rehabilitation and replacement of Brant’s Crossing Bridge. The Community stream is a stable, predictable, and indexed source of funding that allows local communities to make strategic investments in essential infrastructure, such as roads and bridges, public transit, drinking water and wastewater infrastructure, and recreational facilities.

Sierra Bridge Inc. is scheduled to begin delivery of the new bridge spans between May 21 and May 27, 2026, with installation to follow. Intermittent rolling road closures will be required on Colborne Street West at Fordview Drive and on Market Street South at Erie Avenue during this phase of work. 

For public safety, Brant’s Crossing Bridge, Brant’s Crossing Park, Fordview Park, and all fenced construction areas remain closed to the public throughout construction. Pedestrians and cyclists are reminded to follow all posted closure and detour signage. Alternative routes are available via the Lorne Bridge to the north and the TH&B Bridge near Earl Haig Family Fun Park to the south. For information on road closures, including an interactive map, visit Brantford.ca/RoadClosures.

Brant’s Crossing Bridge serves as a connection across the Grand River and connects Fordview Park and Brant’s Crossing Park. Originally constructed in 1875 for railway traffic and replaced in 1913, the bridge was converted for pedestrian and cyclist use in 1996. In 2018, significant ice damage resulted in the temporary closure of the bridge until repairs were completed in late 2021.

In 2022, the City completed a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment that recommended replacing and raising the bridge to improve flood resilience, enhance public safety, and support long-term community use. The new bridge design also includes a wider deck, lighting, and lookout features to enhance the experience for pedestrians and cyclists crossing the Grand River.

A memorial sign at the new south lookout will commemorate the late Tracey Bucci for her contributions to the surrounding community, including leadership on environmental improvement initiatives along the Grand River.

In fall 2025, Alibi Entertainment Inc. filmed the removal of the old Brant’s Crossing Bridge spans for an episode of the Canadian television series The Mightiest. The episode, titled Colossal Construction, features the Tadano crawler crane used on site to remove the spans of the 1913 bridge. The episode is now available on Crave, the CTV App, Apple TV, and Amazon Prime Video.

The City of Brantford appreciates the community’s continued patience and cooperation as work progresses. Construction is anticipated to continue through fall 2026.

For more information and project updates, please visit the project page at Brantford.ca/BrantsCrossingBridge.

Quotes

“The Build Communities Strong Fund is investing in the infrastructure Canadians rely on every day. These projects strengthen communities and support long‑term economic prosperity. The Brant’s Crossing Bridge replacement will improve the bridge’s resilience to ice, ensuring this vital passage remains safe and reliable for years to come. Together we’re building the infrastructure Canadians need today and for future generations.” - The Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure

“The next phase of the Brant’s Crossing Bridge project marks important progress toward restoring a key connection in our city and delivering infrastructure that better reflects the needs of our growing community. As this significant project moves forward, I am also pleased to see that a memorial sign will be installed at the new south lookout, recognizing the legacy of the late Tracey Bucci and her many contributions to our community, including her leadership on environmental improvement initiatives along the Grand River.” – Brantford-Brant MP Larry Brock

“The installation of the new bridge spans marks an important milestone for Brant’s Crossing Bridge. Restoring this community connection across the Grand River will create a safer and more accessible crossing that residents and visitors will enjoy for generations.” - Brantford Mayor Kevin Davis

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Media Contact:

City of Brantford Communications and Community Engagement
519-759-4150 | communications@brantford.ca

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