Disraeli Deal

Roblin & Juba cut the ribbon on the original bridge, Oct. 21, 1960

After months of wrangling, the province and the city reached a deal to toss an extra $53m at the Disraeli Bridge project.

It's unclear as to precisely what the money will do but references in the province's news release such as: "eliminating the need" of a complete closure during the construction phase and "contribute towards options with a lifespan of 75 years" may be nudge-nudge, wink-wink's that there could be enough cash for a completely new span. We'll find out soon.

Manitoba Free Press, Feb. 22, 1913

Drawn-out drama has always been part of the Disraeli Bridge.

Originally envisioned before World War I, it was not until 1949 that the 'Kelvin-Disraeli' project received the green light and hit the city's books. It would take three referenda before the project was finally completed in 1960.

For more on the Disraeli's history see my post of last year: The Disrespected Disraeli

Related:
Disraeli Bridge Project Page - City of Winnipeg
Deal reached on Disraeli bridge - CBC News
Disraeli Won't Close for Repairs - WFP
Disraeli Freeway and Gary Doer Boulevard - Wolfrom
BetterDisraeli.com