City of Montreal to rejuvenate Jacques Cartier Bridge access, create urban park

Work on a $120 million redevelopment projectfor the Jacques Cartier Bridge entrance and surrounding infrastructure is set to begin as early as2018.

Montreal Mayor Denis Coderre announced Sunday that the project would help make the existing entrance more attractive and safer for pedestrians and cyclists.

"We're addressing pressing security concerns for cyclists and pedestrians. Safety is our priority," said Coderre.

The project will extend the bike path along De Maisonneuve Boulevard to the east so it connects with the paths east of the bridge.

Coderre specified that while some of the light work will start next year, the majority of the infrastructure changes won't get underway until construction is completed on the ChamplainBridge project.

• Path on Jacques Cartier Bridge should be open year round, say cycling groups

The city also plans to redothe bridge entrance betweenPapineauandParthenaisstreets, increasegreenery around PapineauMetro and use $10 million in federal funding to create an urban park space under the bridge.

The urban park will include green space, activities for families and even a rock climbing wall.

"The makeover was a necessity," said Coderre.

The city will also be conducting a feasibility study on how to better manage water runoff from the deck of the bridge,

Public consultations will be heldApril 20, from 3-9 p.m. at Cabaret Lion d'Or(1676 Ontario St Est).