Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Find answers to common questions about the QEW Garden City Skyway Bridge Twinning Project.

Project Overview

What is the QEW Garden City Skyway Bridge Twinning Project?

The project will construct a new 2.2 km bridge immediately north of the existing Garden City Skyway, running parallel to it across the Welland Canal. It also includes widening the QEW approaches on both sides of the canal, reconfiguring local roads to accommodate the new structure, constructing pier protection systems in the Welland Canal, and relocating affected utilities. Project limits extend from Niagara Street in St. Catharines (west) to Glendale Avenue in Niagara-on-the-Lake (east).

Why is the second bridge needed? Can’t the existing bridge be repaired?

The existing bridge was built in 1963 and has never had its deck replaced. A full deck rehabilitation is needed — but it would not be possible to keep six lanes of traffic running safely while that work is underway. The current bridge also has narrow shoulders that are inadequate for safe traffic operations and emergency response. Building a new twin bridge allows the existing bridge to be rehabilitated as a future project without prolonged traffic disruption.

Why is this crossing so important?

The QEW Garden City Skyway is one of Ontario’s most critical transportation links, with more than 100,000 vehicles crossing daily. It serves commuters, commercial trucks, tourists, and emergency services, and provides a key connection between the Canada–U.S. border crossings at Queenston, Niagara Falls, and Fort Erie and Ontario’s Greater Golden Horseshoe. Maintaining the reliability and capacity of this corridor is essential to the regional and provincial economy.

When will the highway have four lanes in each direction?

When the new bridge opens, it will carry traffic in both directions in an interim configuration of six total lanes — three eastbound and three westbound. Once the existing bridge is rehabilitated (a separate future project), each bridge will carry four lanes in one direction, for a total of eight lanes across the canal. A broader widening of the QEW is a long-term recommendation in the 2022 Greater Golden Horseshoe Transportation Plan, subject to provincial prioritization and funding.

Who is building the project?

The project is being delivered by Skyway Bridging Partners (SBP), a Canadian general partnership comprising Green Infrastructure Partners Inc., Flatiron Dragados Canada Inc., and Construction Demathieu & Bard Inc. Engineering is led by GHD Limited and Arcadis Professional Services (Canada) Inc. SBP was selected by Infrastructure Ontario (IO) and the Ministry of Transportation Ontario (MTO) under a Progressive Design-Build delivery model.

Construction & Schedule

When does construction start and when will it be complete?

The Design Phase is well underway and expected to be complete in 2027, at which point bridge construction will begin. Enabling works — including utility relocations, geotechnical investigations, and site preparation — are actively underway in 2026. Bridge construction is expected to take multiple years; an updated schedule will be shared as the project progresses.

What is happening on site right now (2026)?

The project is currently conducting enabling works to prepare the site for bridge construction. These are essential preparatory steps that do not involve work on the bridge itself. Current activities include:

• Utility locates and early utility relocations
• Geotechnical borehole drilling to confirm ground conditions for foundation design
• Vegetation and tree clearing within the construction footprint
• Construction of access roads, crane pads, and laydown areas
• Erosion and sediment control measures to protect nearby lands and waterways

These enabling works are not expected to significantly impact traffic on the QEW or most local roads. During the summer, Queenston Road and Coon Road in Niagara-on-the-Lake will close to support enabling works in the area. Please see the Project Updates page for current site activity details.

Why are trees being cleared?

Clearing vegetation within the construction footprint is a required first step in any major infrastructure project. It provides access for equipment, allows geotechnical investigations to proceed, and prepares the land for construction. Clearing follows environmental protocols: where possible, it occurs outside migratory bird nesting season. Where clearing must occur during active nesting periods, it is supervised by a qualified Avian Biologist. Invasive species removal is prioritized where feasible.

When will cleared areas be replanted?

A detailed landscape plan is being developed as part of the project’s design phase. Replanting and site restoration — including seeding, tree planting, and site landscaping — will occur progressively as each area of the site is completed. Vegetation restoration on the south side of the bridge and tree planting along the Welland Canal Parkway are included in the project scope.

Will construction happen overnight and on weekends?

Yes. The project is designated as a priority highway project under the Reducing Gridlock, Saving You Time Act, 2024, which allows construction to proceed 24/7 where needed. SBP is committed to minimizing impacts on neighbouring communities and will take all reasonable measures to manage noise, dust, and lighting throughout construction.

What aesthetic improvements are included?

A preliminary landscape plan was developed as part of the 2017 Preliminary Design and Class Environmental Assessment and will serve as the basis for the project’s landscaping scope. Planned improvements include restored vegetation on the south side of the bridge, protection and enhancement of the tree row along the west side of Welland Canal Parkway, and areas seeded for passive recreation. The landscape plan will be refined during the Detail Design Phase.

Traffic & Local Roads

How will traffic on the QEW be managed during construction?

SBP has prepared a comprehensive Traffic Management Plan to safely accommodate all road users. Key commitments include:

• A minimum of two lanes in each direction will be maintained on the QEW during daytime hours
• QEW lane closures will only occur during permitted overnight windows (generally 10 p.m.–6 a.m. on weeknights)
• Lane closures will not occur on statutory holidays
• Portable Variable Message Signs will provide advance notice of closures and travel time information

See the Project Updates page at www.qewgcs.ca for current road closure and detour information.

Which local roads will be affected?

Several local roads will be realigned or reconfigured to accommodate the new bridge and updated highway right-of-way. Roads expected to be affected include Dieppe Road, Dunkirk Road, Queenston Street, York Road, Queenston Road, Niagara Stone Road, Taylor Road, Welland Canal Parkway (and its multi-use trail), and Coon Road. Changes to QEW interchange ramps will also occur at the Niagara Street and Glendale Avenue interchanges. SBP has consulted with the City of St. Catharines, the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, and Niagara Region on these changes.

How will I be notified of road closures or work near my property?

SBP will communicate planned closures and disruptions in advance through:

• Traffic Disruption Notices (TDNs) sent by email to registered stakeholders for SBP activities
• Project website updates at www.qewgcs.ca
• Portable Variable Message Signs in the field
• Submissions to the Ontario 511 Traveller Information system for QEW impacts

Sign up for email updates at www.qewgcs.ca to receive advance notice of work in your area.

Will access to my property and local businesses be maintained?

Yes. Maintaining access to all adjacent properties and businesses is a priority throughout construction. If direct access cannot be safely maintained, alternate routes will be established and communicated in advance. ‘Open for Business’ signs will be installed along affected areas to support local businesses.

How will pedestrians, cyclists, and transit users be accommodated?

SBP is committed to maintaining safe access for all road users. Marked pedestrian pathways, barrier-free routes, and wayfinding signage will be maintained throughout construction. Alternative cycling routes will be provided where existing routes are temporarily impacted. The Welland Canal Parkway multi-use trail will experience temporary impacts during pier construction; a temporary accommodation will maintain north-south cycling connectivity for approximately three construction seasons. SBP will coordinate with Niagara Region Transit on any changes to bus routes or stops, with a minimum of 14 days’ advance notice to passengers.

Will construction traffic affect residential neighbourhoods?

SBP has developed strategies to minimize construction traffic infiltration into neighbouring communities, including advanced warning signs, marked detour routes, temporary turning restrictions, and real-time messaging signs. SBP will work with municipalities to monitor and address any community traffic concerns on an ongoing basis.

Bridge Design

Where will the new bridge be located?

The new bridge will be constructed immediately north of the existing Garden City Skyway, running parallel to it across the Welland Canal. Project limits extend from Niagara Street in St. Catharines (western limit) to Glendale Avenue in Niagara-on-the-Lake (eastern limit).

How long and how high will the new bridge be?

The new bridge will be approximately 2.2 km in length, matching the existing Garden City Skyway. It will be designed to similar navigational clearance standards — approximately 40 m above the Welland Canal at its highest point — to allow continued safe passage of vessels through the canal.

How many lanes will the new bridge have?

In its interim configuration, the new bridge will accommodate six lanes of traffic (three eastbound, three westbound), matching current capacity. Once the existing bridge is rehabilitated, the new bridge will carry four westbound lanes and the rehabilitated bridge will carry four eastbound lanes, for a total of eight lanes. The new bridge is also designed with improved shoulders to better support emergency response and maintenance.

What is the Pier Protection System?

The project includes a new Pier Protection System (PPS) designed to protect both the new and existing bridge structures from potential vessel collisions in the Welland Canal. The PPS is designed to absorb the full impact of a collision from the largest vessel class using the canal, and has been developed in coordination with the St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation (SLSMC). The existing bridge is safe from ship collision; the new system extends and improves protection for both structures.

Will the Welland Canal remain open during construction?

Yes. The Welland Canal will remain in full operation throughout construction. SBP will maintain the required navigational channel for safe passage of all vessels at all times, and will coordinate ongoing communication with SLSMC throughout all construction phases.

Environment

How will environmental impacts be managed during construction?

Environmental mitigation measures are built into the construction contracts and managed through SBP’s Environmental Management System (EMS). Environmental Inspectors are on-site throughout construction to ensure all measures are properly installed and maintained. Key measures include:

• Erosion and sediment control measures to protect the Welland Canal and nearby watercourses
• Stormwater management and spill prevention plans
• Dust suppression on construction roads and disturbed areas
• Noise mitigation through muffled equipment and restrictions on the loudest construction activities
• Wildlife mitigation protocols including nest surveys, exclusion zones, and wildlife passage maintenance

How will wildlife, including the Great Blue Heron colony, be protected?

An active Great Blue Heron colony is located within the project area. SBP’s Environmental Management Team and a qualified Avian Biologist are conducting ongoing monitoring and have established baseline noise and vibration conditions. Wildlife protection measures include:

• Surveys and inspections prior to work in environmentally sensitive areas
• Avoidance of clearing and ground disturbance during breeding and nesting seasons where feasible
• Noise monitoring and mitigation near the Great Blue Heron colony
• Wildlife passage improvements through and around the bridge structure
• Bat boxes installed to replace habitat for species-at-risk bats prior to tree clearing

How will cultural heritage be protected?

A series of cultural heritage assessments have been completed since 2011, evaluating impacts on landscapes and built heritage resources in and around the project area — including the existing Garden City Skyway bridge itself. MTO is completing a Strategic Conservation Plan for the Garden City Skyway. Every effort will be made to preserve the heritage attributes of the existing bridge during construction of the new twin bridge.

How will noise and dust be managed?

SBP is required to implement noise and dust mitigation measures throughout construction. Noise mitigation includes the use of muffled equipment, restrictions on the loudest construction activities, and ongoing noise monitoring at sensitive locations. Dust will be controlled through regular watering of unpaved access roads and disturbed areas, wheel wash stations, and stabilization of cleared areas. Noise mitigation work can be conducted 24/7 as needed.

Have archaeological assessments been completed?

The majority of the study area has been cleared of archaeological concern through Stage 1–4 Archaeological Assessments completed as part of the 2017 Preliminary Design and Class Environmental Assessment, and subsequent work. Minor refinements to the study area added lands that were not previously assessed; archaeological assessment of those areas is ongoing. Results are submitted to the Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism for the Ontario Public Register of Archaeological Reports.

Will noise levels increase after both bridges are complete?

Noise Impact Assessments were completed as part of the 2017 Preliminary Design and Class Environmental Assessment, comparing future traffic volumes against existing conditions. The assessments concluded that the completed project will result in minimal changes to existing sound levels in the surrounding area.

Community & Economy

Will any properties be acquired as part of the project?

All permanent property acquisition needed for the project has been completed. Some temporary agreements may still be required for certain aspects of construction. No further expropriations are anticipated at this time.

What are the economic benefits for the Niagara Region?

The project is expected to generate significant economic benefits, including thousands of jobs in skilled and unskilled trades during construction, and business opportunities across engineering, concrete, aggregates, landscaping, steel, hospitality, and more. Long-term benefits include improved traffic capacity and resilience on a key trade corridor. Businesses interested in subcontracting opportunities can learn more at www.qewgcs.ca/subcontractor-procurement-process.

What will the project cost?

The project is currently in the Design Phase, during which the final price is being developed.

Will Ontario and local contractors be used?

The Development Phase Agreement includes provisions to prioritize Ontario and Canadian subcontractors and materials. Local contractors play an important role on large infrastructure projects, and experience with similar projects shows that the majority of construction work is completed by local businesses. Subcontracting opportunities are posted on Building Connected at app.buildingconnected.com.

What types of jobs will be available and how can I apply?

Most positions will be in the skilled trades. Job opportunities posted for the project are listed at www.qewgcs.ca. People interested in these roles are also encouraged to consult local employment centres, union halls, colleges, universities and training schools.

How will the community continue to be engaged?

The project will continue to seek public feedback at key milestones throughout design and construction. Ongoing updates are published on the project website, and comments can be submitted at any time at www.qewgcs.ca. Consultation and engagement activities are ongoing. People can check the project website for public engagement opportunities.

How is consultation with Indigenous communities being conducted?

Indigenous communities and organizations identified through the project consultation process have been engaged at key milestones throughout the design phase. MTO is committed to fulfilling its Duty to Consult obligations and will continue to consult with Indigenous communities and consider their interests throughout the project.

How can I stay informed and get involved?

The project will continue to seek public feedback at key milestones throughout design and construction. Opportunities to participate in consultation and/or engagement will be advertised on the Project Website. Ongoing updates are published on the project website, and comments can be submitted at any time at www.qewgcs.ca. You can also sign up to receive project email updates on the website.

Permits & Legislation

What permits and approvals are required?

The project requires permits and approvals from federal and provincial regulators, including:

• Fisheries Act authorization from Fisheries and Oceans Canada
• Navigable Waters Act authorization from Transport Canada
• Environmental Activity and Sector Registry water taking registration
• Species Conservation Act registration or permits for any impacts to species at risk
• Damage or Danger Permit from Environment and Climate Change Canada
• Environmental Compliance Approvals under the Ontario Environmental Protection Act

SBP is responsible for securing all required permits and approvals before commencing construction activities that require them.

What does the Reducing Gridlock, Saving You Time Act mean for this project?

The Act (Royal Assent: November 25, 2024) designates the Garden City Skyway Bridge Twinning Project as a priority highway project, allowing construction to proceed 24/7. Exceptions continue to apply, including weight restrictions on bridges, speed limits, and closures of municipal roads for maintenance or special events. MTO remains committed to managing construction impacts and will work with communities to minimize noise, dust, and lighting throughout the project.

Contact & Stay Informed

How will the public be kept informed throughout the project?

Key communication channels include:

• Project website: www.qewgcs.ca — the central hub for updates, notices, and comment submission
• Email updates and e-newsletters — sign up at www.qewgcs.ca
• Traffic Disruption Notices issued in advance of planned road closures for construction
• Portable Variable Message Signs and project signage in the field
• Local advertising in the St. Catharines Standard, Niagara This Week, The Lake Report, and other regional outlets
• Public meetings at key project milestones

Who can I contact with questions or concerns?

The project team welcomes all questions and feedback:

• Email: info@skywaybridgingpartners.com
• Phone: 289-932-4119
• Website: www.qewgcs.ca (includes a comment submission form)
• Mail: Attention Jeff Fellman, Project Director, 100 Commerce Valley Drive, Markham, ON L3T 0A1

Still have a question?

General Inquiries

289-932-4119

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