Wanted: New Champlain Bridge

An online petition to replace the Champlain Bridge has been started by a network of mayors, businessmen and interest groups in the Montreal area.

Canada’s busiest bridge connects the island of Montreal to the South Shore. Recently reports have warned of the need to repair or replace the aging structure within the next ten years.

Due to its importance for many Montrealers, politicians of all stripes have made the bridge a top priority for the upcoming election with Premier Jean Charest naming it as his top wish for the election.

Recently liberal leader Michael Ignatieff promised a new bridge for the South Shore if the Liberals win the election.

Also earlier this year the Conservative government pledged $158 million towards repairing the bridge. The leaders of the petition say that talk is nice, but what the busy bridge and its over 60 million annual commuters need right now, is action.