Macdonald Bridge 'bump' to be reduced as Big Lift work progresses

The Big Lift deck replacement project is close to reaching mid-span, which means people who cross the Macdonald Bridge will soon see a few changes,including a smoothing of the traffic "bump" near the Dartmouth side.

Over the weekend, engineers successfully raised the 15th and 16th deck segment.

"We're almost halfway," said lead engineer John Eppell. "Another three segments to get halfway across."

In April, the project was about four months behind schedule, but Eppell says it's catching up.

New traffic plate will reduce the 'bump'

Since the project is now close to mid-span, Eppell says within a week, workers will replace one of the three traffic plates that bridge gaps for expansion joints and the join between the old and new bridge sections.

"We will be replacing the one that everybody's been referring to as 'the bump,'" he said.

"We're further along on the construction, so the impact of the construction loads on the expansion and contraction on that point is lessened. It's allowing us now to go in and swap out that plate with one that's lower profile."

The new traffic plate will be half as thick,and the asphalt surrounding the plate will also be more level. Eppell says it should be a noticeable difference, but people should still drive slowly.

Careful driving still required

"It still is a construction site, and people should drive safely," he said.

Re-decking should reach the Halifax tower by early August, followed by paving.

The sidewalk and bike lane should open at the end of this year.