Our Gatineau team mobilized to repair a historic former railway bridge

Built in 1877, the Pont Noir is a 254-meter-long former railway bridge that was once the only direct rail link between Hull and Montreal. It was redeveloped in 2012 as part of the Rapibus corridor project in Gatineau. Today, nearly 300 buses travel across it daily, mainly during rush hour. The Pont Noir also includes a bicycle and pedestrian path.

Bus traffic combined with wear and tear over time affects the deck surface, which consists of grating fixed to wooden ties with steel plates and lag screws. Artelia has therefore been commissioned to support the STO over a three-year period to maintain proactive monitoring of the structure’s condition, ensure the quality and durability of repairs, anticipate and manage unforeseen events and facilitate coordination between the various stakeholders.

 A strategic bridge in emergency situations

During the major floods of 2017 and 2019, the Pont Noir was an essential link in maintaining the continuity of public and active transportation, while allowing first responders to quickly cross the Gatineau River to respond to disaster areas. This infrastructure is not just a simple link between two areas: it is a strategic artery for mobility and public safety. In a context where climate change is increasing the risk of spring flooding and extreme weather events, its reliability is becoming even more critical.

 We are pleased to see our new Gatineau team contributing to this project, which, in addition to enhancing user safety, helps preserve historical heritage and support the resilience of the region’s public transit network.