10/10/2025
Plans for the new bridge…
Ontario Moves Forward with Replacement of Historic Little Current Swing Bridge
New two-lane bridge to enhance safety, access, and economic growth on Manitoulin Island
LITTLE CURRENT, ON — The Ontario government has taken a major step toward replacing one of Northern Ontario’s most iconic and vital transportation links — the Little Current Swing Bridge — by awarding a contract for the detailed design of a new, modern two-lane structure.
The new bridge will replace the aging 110-year-old swing bridge on Highway 6, the only roadway connecting Manitoulin Island to the mainland. In addition to two traffic lanes, the replacement will include a pedestrian walkway and a bike lane, ensuring safer and more reliable access for residents, visitors, and businesses year-round.
Premier Doug Ford emphasized the bridge’s importance to the region, noting its role as a lifeline for the island community.
“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 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.”
The contract for the detailed design has been awarded to Stantec Consulting Ltd., marking the next phase in the bridge replacement project. The province completed the planning, preliminary design, and environmental assessment for the replacement in September 2023.
Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria said the new design will ensure safety, reliability, and long-term growth.
“Our government is investing in the critical infrastructure that keeps Ontario moving,” Sarkaria said. “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.”
The project is part of Ontario’s $30 billion plan to build, repair, and expand critical transportation infrastructure, and fits within the government’s broader $200 billion “Plan to Build Ontario” — which includes major investments in Northern Ontario roads and highways.
Minister of Northern Development George Pirie highlighted both the cultural and economic importance of the project.
“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,” Pirie said. “Our government is investing in the replacement of this bridge to bring a key piece of the past into the future — keeping Manitoulin Island connected and ensuring people and goods can move safely, efficiently and reliably in the North.”
Local leaders and industry groups also welcomed the announcement.
Algoma–Manitoulin MPP Bill Rosenberg called the bridge “an essential lifeline,” while Mayor Al MacNevin of Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands expressed excitement about the long-awaited progress.
“Our community is thrilled by the efforts to complete this project,” said Mayor MacNevin. “People will benefit from an improved, safe and reliable bridge that is the only year-round access point to Manitoulin Island.”
Keanin Loomis, President and CEO of the Canadian Institute of Steel Construction, applauded the province’s investment and its commitment to using Canadian expertise.
“Awarding contracts for design work to Canadian companies plays a vital role in supporting the Canadian steel industry and our local economies,” Loomis said.
During peak summer months, the Little Current Swing Bridge handles approximately 4,500 vehicles per day. Once complete, the new two-lane bridge is expected to improve traffic flow, safety, and accessibility for residents and visitors alike — securing Manitoulin Island’s connection to the mainland for generations to come.
