City of Edmonton, Municipal, News Release

Edmonton, AB – February 18, 2025 – The Edmonton Chamber of Commerce (ECC) is deeply concerned about the City of Edmonton’s planned construction projects in 2025, especially the repair and replacement of three major bridges—Dawson Bridge, Low-Level Bridge, and Wellington Bridge—that provide are vital to downtown access. 

These projects will result in full or partial closures, traffic detours, and pedestrian disruptions. Many local businesses, still recovering from the pandemic and facing economic uncertainty, risk losing customer traffic, threatening their survival. Simultaneously closing multiple bridges could create severe congestion, delays, and further revenue loss for struggling businesses. 

“Fixing our city’s infrastructure is important, but it can’t come at the expense of the businesses that keep our downtown thriving. Shutting down multiple key bridges at once will choke traffic, frustrate customers, and put already struggling businesses at risk," said Heather Thomson, Vice President of Economy & Engagement of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce. "The City needs to take a smarter approach—staggering projects, offering financial relief, and keeping businesses informed—so we don’t trade one crisis for another.” 

 We are calling on the City to immediately reassess the timing of these major bridge projects to prevent severe disruptions to downtown access. We also urge the City to take decisive action to support businesses that will bear the brunt of long-term construction impacts. 

Recommendations to the City of Edmonton: 

• Stagger Bridge Construction Projects: To lessen disruptions, the City should reconsider the timing of the major bridge repairs and make sure that no more than one or two major bridges are closed at once. 

• Support Affected Businesses: The City should offer financial help, like granting tax abatements or refunds, or major construction project disruption grants, to support businesses that are losing revenue due to the construction and reduced customer traffic. 

• Improve Communication with Stakeholders: Clear communication with businesses and other affected groups is essential. Providing up-to-date information on construction schedules, detours, and available support will help businesses better plan for disruptions. 

The Edmonton Chamber of Commerce is committed to working with the City’s Administration and City Council to find solutions that support both the city’s infrastructure goals and the long-term health of Edmonton’s business community 

We encourage businesses who will be affected by the planned construction projects to share their concerns with the Edmonton Chamber (policy@edmontonchamber.com) and email their City Councillor.