Three major infrastructure projects awarded to Rankin Construction. Photo Credit: Rankin Construction.
The Niagara Region has come to an agreement with Rankin Construction that will allow for a massive development project to proceed in the western end of St. Catharines. A $34.88-million contract, which was approved during an Aug. 13 meeting of the public works committee, will consist of the reconstruction of Ridley Road, the replacement of the St. Paul Street West Canadian Railway (CNR) Bridge over the railway tracks, and a GO station precinct development. In realizing their success, Niagara-based Rankin Construction outbid EllisDon, a competitor firm located in Mississauga.
Last year, the Niagara Region purchased what is now the St. Catharines GO station from its previous owner, Via Rail. The establishment continues to be served by Via’s Maple Leaf Line, which transports people from Toronto to New York City, in addition to being a GO bus route and GO train hub. However, significant renovations are needed for it to work as a multi-model transit hub, add Niagara Transit connections, while at the same time maintaining its rich heritage and history. Great Western Street will also be enhanced to ensure better access and function with the station.
The St. Paul Street West CNR Bridge, which was first built in 1922, has been closed since Autumn 2023, following an inspector report. However, Frank Tassone, Director of Transportation Services for The Niagara Region, is optimistic because the bridge reconstruction will be the first stage of the project, and he believes it can be completed by the end of next year. Once this inaugural phase has been concluded, the attention will turn to Ridley Road and the GO station precinct. Upon completion, the Niagara Region will assume ownership of the new bridge.
This plan for carrying out the project will come as a relief to residents and small business owners who have been utilizing Ridley Road while the bridge has been unavailable. If Ridley Road had been replaced before the bridge, it could have become exceedingly difficult to navigate essential travel in the area during periods of construction. The rail line under the bridge, which is owned by CNR, will also continue to be operable for the duration of the bridge construction. There will be mandatory notices of work provided beforehand, Tassone confirmed, and all building-related activities will be directly supervised by CNR.
Both the CNR and the City of St. Catharines will be making extensive financial contributions to support relevant portions of the project, respectively. CNR has committed $12.5 million to the CNR Bridge replacement. St. Catharines City Council has approved a total of $8.08 million for the Ridley Road reconstruction, as well as $13.25 million for the bridge replacement.
Those interested in learning more about Rankin Construction can do so at the following link: Rankin Construction
Nick Redekop completed his Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in Labour Studies at Brock University. He has previously served in municipal and federal politics. In his free time, Nick enjoys following sports, taking part in outdoor activities, and reading biographies. Nick resides in Niagara Falls
