The City of Brantford is moving into a pivotal stage of the Brant’s Crossing Bridge Replacement Project, with the existing structure set to be lifted out using one of the largest mobile cranes in North America.
The Tadano CC38.650 crane, which stands more than 185 feet high when fully assembled, will remove the bridge’s four spans one by one.
The bridge’s concrete piers and abutments will remain in place to support the new pedestrian bridge to be built on the site.
Sierra Bridge Inc., the contractor overseeing the project, is coordinating the removal with subcontractors to ensure the superstructure is taken out safely in the coming weeks.
During this phase, Brant’s Crossing Bridge, Brant’s Crossing Park, Fordview Park, and all fenced construction areas remain closed.
Pedestrians and cyclists are urged to follow posted detours. Alternative routes include the Lorne Bridge to the north and the TH&B Bridge near Earl Haig Family Fun Park to the south.
Construction is expected to continue until spring 2026.
Brant’s Crossing Bridge has long been an important community link across the Grand River, connecting Fordview Park and Brant’s Crossing Park.
The original structure was built in 1875 for railway use and replaced in 1913. It was converted for pedestrians and cyclists in 1996.
The bridge was temporarily closed in 2018 after sustaining severe ice damage, reopening in 2021 following repairs.
In 2022, a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment recommended a full replacement and elevation of the bridge to improve flood resilience, safety, and accessibility.
The new structure will feature a wider deck, lighting, and lookout points designed to enhance the Grand River crossing experience and strengthen Brantford’s role as a hub of Ontario’s trail network.
For updates, residents can visit Brantford.ca/BrantsCrossingBridge.
