The Ministry of Transport announced that the Honoré‑Mercier Bridge will be reduced to a single lane for traffic in both directions from July 17 to August 3, 2026. The temporary configuration is expected to cause major delays for commuters crossing between Montreal and the South Shore.
The bridge, a primary artery linking the island of Montreal with the Rive‑Sud, carries a high volume of daily commuters. By limiting the crossing to one lane, the Ministry expects congestion to increase sharply, especially during peak morning and evening periods when traffic demand is highest.
The lane reduction is part of a scheduled summer repair program aimed at completing essential maintenance on the structure. The work will focus on addressing wear and structural components that require attention before the onset of winter, ensuring the bridge remains safe for long‑term use.
Motorists are urged to allow extra travel time and consider alternative routes such as the Champlain or Jacques‑Cartier bridges. Public transit options across the St. Lawrence River may also provide a viable substitute for regular commuters. The Ministry advises drivers to stay alert for signage and temporary traffic controls throughout the construction period.
The one‑lane arrangement will remain in effect until the scheduled completion date of August 3, 2026, after which the bridge is expected to resume normal two‑lane operation. The Ministry of Transport will monitor traffic conditions and may adjust signal timing to mitigate bottlenecks, but the overall impact on travel times is likely to persist during the work.