Rideau River Pedestrian/Cyclist Bridge - Adàwe Crossing

The original pedestrian bridge that spanned the Rideau River and connected the communities of Overbrook and Sandy Hill in Ottawa, Ontario, had washed away in severe flooding in 1952. For over 60 years, the communities were without a safe crossing.

We were brought in to provide bridge engineering and design services, including transportation and electrical engineering and landscape design. The design included the elimination of one of the proposed in-river bridge piers, which reduced the potential for ice jamming and allows for more space to complete annual ice removal activities.

Named for the Algonquin term meaning “to trade,” the Adàwe Crossing delivers a safe river crossing for both pedestrians and cyclists. It includes four pedestrian lookouts that provide an area outside the bike travel lanes where users can view the natural scenery and diverse wildlife that inhabit this stretch of the Rideau River. The viewing platforms are complemented by a bridge and railing design that creates an overall open feeling and allows free, uninhibited views in all directions. Plus, enhanced LED lighting provides a safe, secure environment for nighttime users.

Thanks to the Adàwe Crossing, the communities of Overbrook and Sandy Hill are finally united once again.