Drivers will need to plan their routes carefully getting on or off the island or driving in the city this weekend, with two bridge closures. The Ile-aux-Tourtes Bridge, located in Montreal, will be closed on St. Patrick’s Day weekend, which has sparked growing calls for Transports Quebec to reconsider this decision. Jay de la Durantaye, president of the Soulanges Irish Society, has expressed concerns about the impact this closure could have on the community. Business owners in Hudson, Quebec, are also worried that the bridge closure will dampen the crowds for the town’s St. Patrick’s Day parade.

Bridge Closure Sparks Controversy

The closure of the Île-aux-Tourtes Bridge on St. Patrick’s Day weekend has stirred up controversy and led to calls for the decision to be re-evaluated by Transports Quebec. Organizers of the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Hudson, Que., are concerned about the potential negative impact on turnout due to the bridge closure. Business owners in the town fear a decrease in visitor traffic during the festivities. The Ministry of Transportation and Sustainable Mobility announced the bridge closure on Monday, stating that it is necessary for upcoming maintenance work and to ensure the safety of drivers.

Summary:

• The Île-aux-Tourtes Bridge will be closed on St. Patrick’s Day weekend
• Residents and business owners are concerned about the impact on the community
• Organizers of the St. Patrick’s Day parade are worried about lower turnout
• Transports Quebec is facing calls to reconsider the bridge closure
• The closure is necessary for maintenance work and driver safety

“The closure of the Île-aux-Tourtes Bridge this weekend could impact the overall success of the St. Patrick’s Day parade and local businesses that rely on the increased traffic during this time,” said Jay de la Durantaye, president of the Soulanges Irish Society.

“We understand the need for maintenance and safety, but we hope Transports Quebec will reconsider the timing of the closure and find alternative solutions,” expressed a concerned business owner in Hudson.