The CPR Bridge. (rdnewsNOW file photo)

By rdnewsNOW Staff

BRIDGE CLOSURE AND TRAIL DETOURS

Upgrades to CPR Pedestrian Bridge beginning next week

Jan 31, 2025 | 5:23 PM

As of Monday, Feb. 3, residents will see construction kick-off to rehabilitate the aging infrastructure of Red Deer’s historic CPR Pedestrian Bridge, causing an extended bridge closure and trail detours.

The rehabilitation project has been progressing since January 2023, with City crews and contractors conducting environmental and structural investigations, site preparation and design work. Now, the next phase is set to begin.

“We are excited to be moving forward with this essential rehabilitation project,” said Greg Sikora, Parks and Public Works Manager. “The CPR Pedestrian Bridge is an iconic landmark in our city, and this project will preserve its historical significance while enhancing safety and accessibility for our community.”

The bridge suffers aging infrastructure and deteriorating components, but the City has chosen to pursue restoration rather than demolition.

“We had to assess the value of the bridge from a historical perspective as well as its important connection to our Waskasoo trail system,” said Sikora. “Ultimately, with the help of the federal government, we were able to restore and preserve it for future generations, rather than demolish it at significant cost and serving no benefit to our community.”

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The Government of Canada is contributing $11.1 million to the project, with the City of Red Deer providing $11.2 million.

Read more: CPR pedestrian bridge to be rehabilitated through combined government investments

Over the next year and a half, construction milestones will include:

• Reconstruction of the timber trestle
• Replacement of concrete foundations
• Repair and replacement of corroded steel truss elements
• Repainting of steel trusses
• Replacement of the timber deck with a new durable concrete surface
• Upgrades to pedestrian-level lighting on and approaching the bridge
• Public realm improvements

The bridge was originally constructed in 1908 by the Canadian Pacific Railway and served as a railway crossing until 1990, when the rail line was relocated out of downtown. Thanks to the efforts of dedicated community members who advocated for its preservation, the bridge was spared demolition and repurposed as an active transportation structure. Red Deer’s city council designated the site as a Municipal Historic Resource in 1991.

For more information and construction updates, visit the City’s website.

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