Mission Bridge Rehabilitation Project Complete!
We did it (!) – this long-anticipated project has been completed! This marks a significant new milestone for this storied bridge – a bit of history…
The first Mission Bridge was built in 1886 as a wooden structure. It was replaced in 1901 with a steel structure to add endurance and longevity to this important intersection. In 1912 the City approved design for a new concrete and four-arched bridge – it was Calgary’s first and it continues to be the oldest standing concrete bridge in Alberta. Construction in 1915 was impacted by the floods that year and sadly a worker was lost. Major rehabilitation was later completed in 1987 to further extend the life of the bridge. We have now all experienced the most recent rehabilitation of this historical City connector – the Mission Bridge played a strong role in facilitating the development of Calgary and in more recent years, has been a busy thoroughfare connecting the downtown area to all areas of southern Calgary and beyond.
Thanks to all residents who endured 1.5 years of lane closures, detours, and congestion – and keeping all riders and pedestrians safe during the process. Hats off to the City of Calgary who had a large construction crew going most days, many of who became friendly faces as we traversed the bridge, marvelled by all the complexities in bringing these projects to the finish line.
The City of Calgary, Graham Construction and the RRCA sponsored a thank-you event on October 27th at Sara Scout Hall to celebration project completion. Cookies and food truck lunches were provided – thanks to all who were able to attend!