6th Street Active Transportation Bridge

Start: January 2020

End: Ongoing

Last Updated: August 23, 2024

Project Description:

Follow Along With Us On the Journey!

The 6th Street Bridge will provide cyclists, pedestrians and other people-powered transportation connections from the bottom of 6th Street to Simms Millennium Park, and the extensive trail networks on both sides of the Courtenay River.

Frequently Asked Questions - 6th Street Bridge

 

About the Proposed Design

A four-metre-wide symmetrical cable-stayed design was chosen for the project by council in December 2020. This design requires a smaller staging area during construction, with less impact on traffic and the environment, while remaining visually appealing.

Renderings of the proposed 6th Street pedestrian bridge:

 

 

The proposed alignment:

Why an Active Transportation Bridge?

The 6th Street Bridge will be of interest to many, with benefits that include:

  • Providing a key connection between extensive pathways and cycling, while:
    • Offering more confidence and safety for users
    • Further encouraging alternate modes of transportation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions created by motorized vehicles.

 A 6th street multi-use bridge has been in discussion for many years, and is included in the City’s recently completed Parks & Recreation Master Plan and referenced in the Transportation Master Plan for the City of Courtenay. In addition, the Downtown Courtenay Playbook notes an additional crossing at Sixth Street should be explored further.

Costs & Funding

The current project budget for the 6th Street Bridge is $6.9 million.  Canada’s Active Transportation Fund is providing $2.5 million in funding for the project.  $1 million in funding for the project will come from the Provincial Government’s Growing Communities Fund.  The remaining project costs not funded by the grants will be covered through long-term borrowing and reserves.  The City will continue to look for other grant opportunities to support the project.

What's Happening Now?

The project team is currently working on these important project steps:

  • Engaging with stakeholder groups and businesses to provide updates
  • Drafting construction tender documents
  • Completing/submitting permitting applications

Project Highlights

Project Status:

Detailed Design