Drivers heading into Colwood this week will notice a major change along Island Highway as the long-awaited Galloping Goose pedestrian and cycling bridge begins to take shape.
Built off-site by Surespan, crews are now working overnight to crane gigantic steel spans in place over Sooke Road.
The spans will be placed in stages with the first the two on the sides, and later the final centre span on the third night.
After the steel structure is in place, crews will lay down the bridge decking, pave the approaches from Wale Road across the overpass and complete the remaining finishing works, including railings.
The new overpass completes a safe seamless connection for pedestrians and cyclists travelling the Galloping Goose Trail, which is a well-known 55-kilometre length cycling route all the way from Vicotria to Sooke.
The entire project was funded from a $3.6 million grant awarded through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.
City officials said the overpass will improve safety and increase the likelihood of additional walking and cycling in Colwood.
The bridge supports the City’s multitiered goal of reducing traffic congestion, improving adjacent businesses, and reducing green house gas emissions.
When complete, the bridge will replace the existing busy at-grade crossing near Ocean Boulevard, giving trail users a safer and more convenient way across Sooke Road.
