The towering 1930 structure has untapped potential as a lookout point and tourist attraction. Pedestrians, and especially disabled people, currently face obstacles to access: a winding route with what Les AmiEs identify as 4.5% slopes and tight turns. On the bridge, walkers have to share a 2.5-metre-wide bidirectional path with cyclists.
Current pedestrian route from Place Craig to Parc Jean-Drapeau via Montreal's Jacques Cartier Bridge.
Courtesy of Les AmiEs du courant Sainte-Marie
Under the organization's proposal, elevator towers would rise out of Place Craig and Parc Jean-Drapeau to meet new belvederes on either side of the bridge. An enlarged 600-metre path with dedicated space for both pedestrians and cyclists would connect the lookout points.
Proposed pedestrian route from Place Craig to Parc Jean-Drapeau via Montreal's Jacques Cartier Bridge.
Courtesy of Les AmiEs du courant Sainte-Marie
A video shows how the system would function.
Les AmiEs du courant Sainte-Marie presented the proposal to Montreal's Office de consultation publique on October 12. The timing is opportune: the city is in the early stages of planning a massive overhaul of Parc Jean-Drapeau , which includes improved paths along the riverbank and a recommitment to public universal access to its two islands.
Proposed belvedere on Montreal's Jacques Cartier Bridge.
Courtesy of Les AmiEs du courant Sainte-Marie
We'll see if the elevators are a possibility.
Proposed elevator connecting Montreal's Jacques Cartier Bridge to Place Craig.
Courtesy of Les AmiEs du courant Sainte-Marie
Les AmiEs du courant Sainte-Marie is the organization behind other schemes to reconnect Ville-Marie residents with their river, such as plans to create a massive public beach at the Old Port Clocktower and construct an elevated walkway parallel to the water.
