Île-aux-Tourtes bridge to remain down to two lanes for six weeks, new structure being built

The new Île-aux-Tourtes bridge is now slated to be finished by the end of 2026, rather than the end of 2027, as initially planned.

This was announced as Quebec Transport Minister Geneviève Guilbault was on-site Monday, telling motorists to hold on another six weeks before one more lane can reopen on the existing bridge.

Currently, there is only one lane in each direction on the six-lane span, as Transport Quebec conducts repair work, after a crack was found on the structure last month.

“I know it is very bothering for those people who cannot work from home and who have to attend whether it’s work or school on precise hours,” said Guilabault. “So this is why I think it’s good news for them to know that the new bridge is being built as we speak. It’s been started a week ago, but in the meantime, they can use all of the mitigation measures that we put in place.”

The Ministry is offering free off-island buses and trains for commuters. They’ve removed tolls on Highway 30 and have synchronized traffic lights through Île-Perrot and Dorion on Highway 20. Working from home when possible is encouraged to help ease traffic around the Île-aux-Tourtes.

The transport minister says for those using the bridge, the remaining lanes are safe during repairs, with a fourth lane expected to reopen in about a year.

“As soon as we find out that there is an emergency situation or that there is maybe something that is not safe for people, we close it,” Guilbault said. “We already closed it before and if we have to close it again, we will do it.”

87,000 people travel on the Île-aux-Tourtes bridge daily. It connect’s Montreal’s West Island and Vaudreuil-Soulanges.