Halifax's Macdonald Bridge Closed for Maintenance From Friday night to Monday morning

The Angus L. Macdonald Bridge in Halifax was shut to all traffic from Friday night until early Monday for maintenance work.

The closure affects daily commuters, freight routes, and emergency services that rely on the bridge, and underscores the province’s effort to extend the structure’s lifespan under Project LifeSpan ^[1][2].

The bridge was closed at 8 p.m. on Friday, April 17, 2024, and reopened at 5:30 a.m. on Monday, April 20, 2024 ^[2]. The timing provides a three‑day window for crews to complete Phase two of the initiative, which includes deck resurfacing, and structural reinforcements.

While some outlets reported a single‑night shutdown, the operator’s schedule confirms a multi‑day closure, a discrepancy noted in reports from Yahoo and haligonia.ca ^[4][2]. The longer window minimizes traffic disruption by allowing work to continue uninterrupted through the weekend.

Project LifeSpan, launched by Halifax Harbour Bridges, aims to keep the bridge safe and reliable for decades. Officials said the work will address corrosion, improve drainage, and install new lighting, all of which are intended to reduce future repair costs and enhance safety ^[1][3].

Motorists were directed to use the nearby A. Murray MacKay Bridge, adding an estimated 10‑minute delay to east‑west trips across the harbour, according to traffic studies released by the province ^[1]. The bridge’s closure also prompted a temporary increase in public‑transit ridership as commuters sought alternatives.

What this means: The extended shutdown reflects a strategic choice to perform essential repairs during a low‑traffic window, preventing larger, costlier disruptions later. Residents can expect a more resilient crossing once the work is complete, supporting Halifax’s growing transportation demands.