The construction of the new Piles Bridge in Shawinigan, Québec, Canada, holds significant importance as it serves as a vital component of Québec’s road network.
Autoroute 55, which forms the backbone of the province’s road infrastructure, is a strategic link connecting several neighboring municipalities. This crucial corridor includes Route 155, which experiences substantial traffic flow, including heavy trucking destined for the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region. Recognized as part of the National Road Network (NRN), the Strategic Network in Support of Foreign Trade (SNSFT), and the Québec Strategic Transportation Network (QSTN), Autoroute 55 plays a pivotal role in facilitating both domestic and international trade.
Renderings by SYSTRA IBT VIZ
The construction of the new Piles Bridge is essential for maintaining and enhancing this link, ensuring seamless connectivity and mobility for commuters and the transportation of goods. With a carriage width of 17 m (55 ft), four lanes, and two shoulders, the new bridge will accommodate current traffic demands while anticipating future growth and development. Spanning approximately 180 m (590 ft) over the St. Maurice River, the superstructure will promote economic prosperity and regional development.
SYSTRA IBT has been contracted to prepare the preliminary and final designs, plans, and specifications for the construction of the Piles Bridge. SYSTRA IBT will collaborate with the engineering firm Cima+ on behalf of the Ministry of Transportation of Québec and will act as a subcontractor to Cima+ for the design of the main bridge.
