Final bidders announced for Alexandra Bridge Replacement project

Key Takeaways:

• Three consortiums have been shortlisted to move forward in the Alexandra Bridge replacement project, with formal proposals due in October 2025. The chosen team will design, dismantle, and rebuild the historic bridge linking Ottawa and Gatineau.
• The current Alexandra Bridge, built in 1901, is nearing the end of its lifespan, prompting the federal government to commit to a major infrastructure overhaul using a progressive design-build approach aimed at increasing efficiency and reducing risk.
• Construction is expected to begin in 2028 and conclude by 2032, with extensive public and Indigenous consultations ongoing as part of the project’s planning and design process.

The Whole Story:

The federal government has taken a significant step toward replacing the aging Alexandra Bridge, naming three consortiums that will move forward in the competitive bidding process to design and construct a new span connecting Ottawa and Gatineau.

On Thursday, Joël Lightbound, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement, announced that the shortlisted teams will be invited to participate in the Request for Proposal (RFP) stage, scheduled for October 2025.

The selected bidders are:

• Epoch Pathway Ontario-Québec Partners, led by Flatiron Dragados Canada Inc., EBC Inc., and Construction Demathieu & Bard Inc., supported by Hatch Ltd. and Spain’s Carlos Fernandez Casado S.L.
• Peter Kiewit Sons ULC, working with Kiewit Engineering Group Canada ULC, WSP Canada Inc., and International Bridge Technologies Canada Inc.
• Heritage Link Group, a partnership including Janin Atlas Inc., Dodin Quebec Inc., COWI North America Ltd., and Stantec Consulting Ltd.

The companies were shortlisted following a Request for Qualifications launched in October 2024. One of these teams will be selected to finalize the bridge’s design, dismantle the existing structure, and oversee the construction of the new crossing.

The contract for planning and design is expected to be awarded in winter 2026, with demolition and construction contracts to follow in 2027. Actual work on the site is projected to begin in 2028, with the new bridge expected to open by 2032.

Built in 1901, the Alexandra Bridge is one of the oldest crossings over the Ottawa River. Originally designed as a rail and vehicle bridge, it has long been showing signs of wear and is considered to be at the end of its usable life. In recent years, its condition has required frequent maintenance and intermittent closures.

The replacement effort is being delivered through a progressive design-build approach—an increasingly common model in large-scale infrastructure projects that emphasizes early collaboration between design and construction teams. Officials say this model will improve efficiency, reduce risk, and help control costs.

The National Capital Commission (NCC) recently released an updated preferred design concept based on extensive public consultations. That design, still under refinement, is intended to reflect the bridge’s historic and cultural importance while meeting modern transportation needs.

The integrated project team overseeing the initiative includes representatives from Public Services and Procurement Canada, the NCC, and technical advisor Arup Canada Inc. Consultations with Indigenous communities, the public, and key stakeholders will continue throughout the project’s development.

“Today’s announcement is an important milestone in the Alexandra Bridge replacement project and underscores the Government of Canada’s commitment to expedite nation-building projects that will connect and transform our country,” Minister Lightbound said. “This project will enhance transportation and mobility in the National Capital Region for decades to come.”