Kingston’s largest ever infrastructure project should prove a benefit to CFB Kingston. The Third Crossing project will provide link across the Cataraqui River from Gore Road in the city’s east-end to John Counter Boulevard in its north end, when it opens next year. The bridge will feature two lanes for vehicle traffic along with a multi-purpose trail for biking, walking and other forms of active transport.
“The Third Crossing should reduce commute time to the base and increase access to emergency services”, says Col Masson, CFB Kingston’s Base Commander. “This project will prove to be a benefit for all of the east-end of Kingston, not just the base”.
The project is funded by all three levels of government, federal, provincial and municipal. The construction will use over 3,000 tonnes of steel, 30,000 tonnes of Concrete and 365,000 tonnes of gravel to build the 1.2 km bridge.
The active transport route along with its two lookout locations will enhance the locate experience of the Rideau Canal. The Rideau Canal is the oldest continuously operated canal system in North America, and in 2007 it was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.
“This new bridge will help ease congestion in our downtown, will provide additional access to the east end for emergency vehicles, and will act as a catalyst for the redevelopment and revitalization of the north end of the city”, says City of Kingston’s Mayor Bryan Paterson. “I look forward to celebrating the completion of the third crossing and seeing all the benefits it will provide our city!”
