The Quebec Ministry of Transport announced that the Honoré-Mercier Bridge will operate with a single lane for two‑way traffic from July 17 to August 3, 2026. The reduction to one lane is expected to create major congestion for motorists traveling between Montreal and the South Shore during the construction period.
The bridge, a principal crossing over the Saint Lawrence River, will remain open but will allow traffic in both directions to share the same lane. The ministry confirmed that no additional lanes will be available while the work proceeds, and that the limitation applies for the entire 18‑day span of the project.
Motorists using the route are being advised to anticipate longer travel times and to consider alternative paths where possible. The single‑lane configuration is part of summer construction work aimed at maintaining the bridge’s infrastructure. The Ministry of Transport did not release specific traffic volume estimates, but indicated that the situation will likely result in “heavy traffic” during peak commuting periods.
The Honoré-Mercier Bridge links the island of Montreal with the South Shore municipalities, serving as a critical conduit for daily commuters, commercial vehicles, and regional travelers. The construction schedule coincides with the peak summer travel season, a factor that the ministry noted when outlining the expected impact on traffic flow. Drivers are encouraged to stay informed of real‑time conditions and to plan accordingly throughout the two‑week construction window.