Hamilton councillors approves plan to build pedestrian bridge over Linc

Hamilton city councillors have advanced a plan to build a new bridge over the Lincoln M. Alexander Parkway for pedestrians in a busy area.

Councillors say the location is important because the way across right now can be dangerous.

City staff say the bridge is about safety and connectivity.

The bridge would connect T.B. McQuesten Park with Lime Ridge Mall.

Councillors pointed out that this location is significant because of the recreational spaces, commercial spaces and transit in the area.

On Monday, city council’s public works committee approved a report that laid out a few options, but the preferred one is a 12 metre wide and 80 metre long bridge connecting existing trails at T.B. McQuesten Park to a trail right beside Suds Car Wash, which leads to Lime Ridge Mall’s bus terminal.

The project will cost around $7.75 million.

Of the cost, $6 million would come from a federal investment through the Canada Infrastructure Program.

City staff and councillors say the mall, trails and transit terminal in the area makes a pedestrian bridge much needed. But safety was the number one concern for the area’s councillor.

“My main concern was safety, I know McQuesten Park when people want to go to the other side of the Linc, there’s been three or four accidents in those corners,” says Ward 7 Coun. Esther Pauls.

“So I know safety is number one for me, and also the connectivity to HSR, the mall, to so many things. I really think this is a great idea and I’m looking forward to the future of it.”

City council’s public works committee approved the environmental assessment of the plan.

It’s unclear exactly when construction could start.

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