VICTORIA, BC – The Dynamic Beast crane barge is returning to Victoria next week to install the last of the major components for the new Johnson Street Bridge.
On Saturday, January 27, the massive crane barge will lift and place the 46-metre long bridge deck span. The span includes the three vehicle travel lanes, two on-street bike lanes, a pedestrian walkway and a multi-use pathway that connects with the Galloping Goose and E&N Trails.
On Sunday, January 28, the Dynamic Beast will lift the steel roadway infill panel into place. The panel sits between the main bridge deck span and the rings, completing the entire bridge deck.
During the work to complete this major milestone in the new bridge’s construction, the existing Johnson Street Bridge will be closed from 7 a.m. Saturday until 5 p.m. on Sunday to all pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. The crane barge will be parked directly underneath the existing bridge which will remain in the up position until all pieces are placed. Areas near the approaches to the bridge will also be closed to ensure public safety.
The best view of the construction activities will be from the northeast side of the bridge near Canoe Club and Mermaid Wharf or online on the project webcam.
January 26
- The Dynamic Beast crane barge will pass under the current bridge into the Upper Harbour early in the day
- From approximately noon onwards the marine channel will be closed to all marine traffic as large concrete girders that become the roadway deck that spans across the bascule pier are loaded onto a barge
January 27
- Starting at 7 a.m. the existing Johnson Street Bridge will be raised into the up position and will be closed to all pedestrians, cyclists and drivers
- The Dynamic Beast crane barge will be positioned in the marine channel under the existing bridge and will lift and place the new bridge deck span
January 28
- The Dynamic Beast crane barge will lift the steel roadway infill panel into place.
- Once the major lifts are completed, the Dynamic Beast will depart Victoria and the existing bridge will be reopened to pedestrians, cyclists and drivers.
January 29 – February 4
- Crews will work to attach the bridge deck span to the rings from barges that will continue to block the marine channel
- Once the span has been secured to the rings, the first test lift of the new bridge will take place
Note: The dates and times above are subject to change and are weather dependent as the steel pieces cannot be lifted during high winds.
During the weekend closure, traffic delays are expected and pedestrians, cyclists and drivers should plan to use the Bay Street Bridge. Information boards will be placed on the east and west approaches to the bridge to advise the public of closures and delays. Some noise and additional lighting around the construction area should be expected during the construction period. Emergency services and BC Transit have been notified and some bus routes will be altered.
Victoria Harbour Ferry has also stepped up once again to provide ferry services during the closure between the Delta Hotel Dock, Regent Hotel and Causeway docks. The ferries will operate from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The fare is $2 per person for a one-way trip.
Following the departure of the Dynamic Beast a full marine channel closure will remain in effect until February 4 as smaller barges will be parked in the waterway as crews work to attach the bridge deck span to the rings. This closure applies to all vessels including industrial and commercial vessels, and smaller boats such as sailboats, canoes, and kayaks.
The new bridge will look essentially complete with these major pieces in place, but there is still work to be completed before it is ready to open to the public at the end of March. This includes a comprehensive series of tests of the mechanical, electrical and hydraulic systems.
For the latest information on the project or to view the webcam, visit www.JohnsonStreetBridge.com
For More Information:
Rebecca Penz
Engagement Advisor
250.661.0085
