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Kent Street bridge replacement

Crew members get ready for the next phase of the Kent Street Rapid Bridge replacement Hwy. 417 Saturday, Oct. 24, 2015. JULIENNE BAY/Ottawa Sun

Saturday meant traffic headaches for many as a portion of Hwy. 417 between Rochester St. and Metcalfe St. remained closed for the Kent Street Rapid Bridge Demolition and Replacement.

But for others it spurned curiousity and interest.

The demolition process began Friday with excavators tearing down the old structures. The new east and west-bound bridges will be placed this weekend, weighing more than double compared to the previous structures.

The construction provided entertainment for some Ottawans as bleachers were set up in the Centretown Orthodonics plaza parking lot for those looking to take photos or simply watch the process.

After all, this may be their last chance in decades to watch the Kent Street bridge replacement, as MTO is hoping the new bridges will last 70 years with regular maintenance.

What you said:

Why did you come out to watch the construction this early on a Saturday (before 10 a.m.)?

Marc Veronneau

“I didn’t see the first one they did over at Allen Park back in 2007 … This is close to my house, so why not take a peek?”

Barrie Smith

“I like to see the new technology being used to maintain our highways.”

David Nally

“I thought I’d just take a look. I’ve seen the other ones (on the west end) too. It’s always intriguing.”


Source: Ottawa Sun