LITTLE CURRENT, Ont. — The Ontario government is moving ahead with plans to replace the 110-year-old Little Current Swing Bridge, a key transportation link between Manitoulin Island and the mainland, with a new two-lane structure aimed at boosting safety, reliability, and economic growth across Northern Ontario.
The province announced that it has awarded a contract for the detailed design of the replacement bridge, marking a significant milestone in a project that has been years in development. The new bridge will feature two lanes of traffic, a pedestrian walkway, and a bike lane, ensuring year-round access to the provincial highway network for the thousands of people who depend on the crossing each day.
“As Manitoulin Island’s only road crossing, the Little Current Swing Bridge has been a crucial link for families, workers and businesses for over a century,” said Premier Doug Ford. “By building a new and wider bridge, we’re supporting the community’s continued economic growth and ensuring residents have reliable year-round access to our province’s highway network for the next 110 years.”
Modern Bridge to Strengthen Northern Connectivity
The project is being developed under Ontario’s broader infrastructure strategy, part of a $200-billion provincial investment plan to build Ontario, which includes historic spending on road and highway infrastructure across Northern Ontario. The initiative is designed to strengthen economic development, improve safety, and support employment opportunities in the region.
“Our government is investing in the critical infrastructure that keeps Ontario moving,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. “With detail design underway, we’re taking the next step to get a new bridge built, improving safety and reliability for residents and businesses in the North, while supporting good-paying jobs and economic growth.”
Stantec Consulting Ltd. has been awarded the contract for the detailed design phase. The government completed the planning, preliminary design, and environmental assessment for the bridge in September 2023, following years of community engagement and technical studies.
The replacement bridge is part of Ontario’s $30-billion plan to build, repair, and expand key transportation infrastructure across the province, with a strong focus on supporting Northern Ontario’s connectivity.
A Lifeline for Communities and Commerce
Officials describe the new bridge as essential to sustaining the flow of people, goods, and services to and from Manitoulin Island — especially during peak summer months when approximately 4,500 vehicles cross the bridge daily.
“The Little Current Swing Bridge is not only an iconic landmark in the community, but also a vital link for residents, tourists, businesses and emergency services in accessing Manitoulin Island,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “Our government is investing in the replacement of this bridge to bring a key piece of the past into the future — making travel easier, keeping Manitoulin Island connected and ensuring people and goods can move safely, efficiently and reliably in the North.”
The bridge, originally opened in 1913 as a railway crossing, has become a defining feature of Manitoulin Island’s landscape. However, its age and limited capacity have prompted years of calls for a modern replacement. Local leaders and business groups have welcomed the province’s decision to move forward with the project.
Local and Industry Reaction
“The Little Current Swing Bridge has been an essential lifeline for residents going back more than a century. Our government is proud to invest in a two-lane replacement to make travel even more convenient and contribute to economic growth for decades to come,” said Bill Rosenberg, MPP for Algoma—Manitoulin.
Local officials say the replacement will improve safety and reliability for both residents and visitors.
“I am happy to hear Premier Ford’s announcement that the provincial government is moving forward with the detailed design of the replacement swing bridge. Our community is thrilled by the efforts to complete this project. People will benefit from an improved, safe and reliable bridge that is the only year-round access point to Manitoulin Island,” said Al MacNevin, Mayor of the Town of Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands.
Industry stakeholders have also voiced their support for the project, emphasizing its role in supporting Canadian manufacturing and engineering expertise.
“The Canadian Institute of Steel Construction applauds the Ontario government for its continued investment in critical infrastructure. Ensuring that these projects meet both the evolving needs of Ontarians and modern safety standards is essential. Awarding contracts for design work to Canadian companies plays a vital role in supporting the Canadian steel industry and our local economies. We further encourage designers to collaborate with Canadian fabricators and steel mills to support local work and ensure projects are completed on time,” said Keanin Loomis, President and CEO of the Canadian Institute of Steel Construction.
Building for the Future
The Little Current bridge project underscores Ontario’s push to modernize infrastructure in the North — a region that accounts for about 60 per cent of the provincial highway network, encompassing nearly 11,000 kilometres of roadway.
Once complete, the new bridge is expected to provide a safer, more efficient route for commuters, tourists, and transport operators alike, reinforcing Manitoulin Island’s connection to the rest of the province and securing its role in Ontario’s economic growth for decades to come.
