Algonquin College Construction

Another construction project in our neighborhood is a new college building - on the far side of the Algonquin College campus. The new building, across a busy street from the rest of the campus, will house their construction training department... plus an underground bus stop to be used by the whole community. The plan includes a pedestrian passageway from the existing campus across the four-lane street to the new building.

The pedestrian bridge - built in Quebec - was transported to the location on big trucks. The street was to be closed to traffic for one whole night while the bridge was lifted in place.

There had been a lot of publicity about the project, since it involved major road closure, so Terry and I decided to wander over to watch (in the dark, hence no pictures!) We stood there shivering in a light drizzle, watching - together with several dozen other interested neighbors. One young man sat on the ground beside his bicycle... It looked as if he was there to stay.

But Terry and I were not as patient. When it seemed to take forever to attach the the first section of the bridge to a large crane, we decided to head back home.

This is just as interesting as watching grass grow.., Terry murmured, as we left. We can come back tomorrow morning. They probably won't be finished yet.

So early the next day, I wandered over - camera in hand - and was surprised to see the bridge completely installed!














Two of the four lanes were still blocked, but traffic was running, and there it was!














A pedestrian passage, joining the old building to the new one...














I'm not sure when students will begin to use it...














But a new city landmark is now in place.

Another transformation in our ever-changing neighborhood!