Strengthening the US/Canada border crossings and trade routes

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Rainbow Bridge

The Lewiston–Queenston Bridge is a twin of the Rainbow Bridge at Niagara Falls

GHD is the prime consultant for rehabilitating two bridges that connect Canada and the US. The bridges need maintenance to prevent corrosion and ensure traffic flow. GHD will use its expertise and experience to overcome the challenges of accessing the structures.

GHD has been awarded the prime consultant role for both the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge and Rainbow Bridge rehabilitation projects. These structures that connect Canada and the United States are vital economic trade routes, which Niagara Falls Bridge Commission (NFBC) has trusted us to rehabilitate, extending their serviceable life.

 

GHD in the Americas

GHD has long-standing client relationships, a significant project and economic footprint in the Americas and represents 40 percent of GHD’s global workforce with nearly 4,000 professionals in over 130 offices in the US, Canada, and Chile. In 2023, our Canadian business was named one of Canada’s Top 100 employers and ranks #6 in international design firms operating in Canada according to Engineering News-Record’s 2023 annual survey of key market segments. GHD’s US operations were named as a 2023 Best Places to Work for disability inclusion by Disability:IN. To find a local office, click here.

GHD will oversee detailed design, administration, and contract inspection, partnering with renowned bridge construction and preservation experts Greenman-Pedersen Incorporated (GPI) to deliver the work.   

 The Lewiston-Queenston Bridge and Rainbow Bridge have served as vital economic trade routes for more than 60 years. Over the years, the humid conditions of the Niagara Gorge have resulted in early signs of corrosion on the bridges’ skewback connections. GHD and NFBC aim to optimize asset life cycle costs, extend their operational lifespans, and ensure seamless traffic and goods flow across the border.  


 

The collaborative approach brought to the table by the GHD team and NFBC has resulted in a highly innovative design process. - The rehabilitation scheme being put in place will address present-day concerns and significantly reduce future structure rehabilitation needs.”  

Mark Torrie, Ontario Transportation Engineering Leader at GHD

Accessing the two structures presents significant challenges due to steep embankments and the swiftly moving waters of the Niagara River below. The work will involve working with 3-inch diameter anchor bolts, which are fixed and cannot be readily replaced. This will require a meticulous coating and reassembly process designed to keep the structures in service during the rehabilitation work.  

 “NFBC's selection of GHD underscores the team's proven track record of delivering exceptional bridge work in the region,” adds Torrie. “GHD's team is committed to meticulous planning to ensure the safety and efficiency of the works despite restricted access areas.”