Bay Street Bridge reopens to two-way traffic as Victoria project enters final stretch

After months of construction, detours, and heavy commuter delays, Victoria’s Bay Street Bridge has officially reopened to two-way traffic.

After months of construction, detours, and heavy commuter delays, Victoria’s Bay Street Bridge, also known as the Point Ellice Bridge, has officially reopened to two-way traffic, marking a major milestone in a rehabilitation project now entering its final stretch.

The City of Victoria confirmed the bridge reopened at 7 a.m. Friday, restoring full access between Vic West and downtown and reopening one of the city’s key harbour crossings.

The reopening follows an extensive phase of rehabilitation work, including the replacement of aging expansion joints and upgrades to the bridge’s drainage system. City officials say the improvements are designed to extend the lifespan of the 65-year-old structure while reducing the risk of water damage and long-term corrosion.

“Reopening this major route restores two-way access for commuters and businesses,” the city said in an update.

Although traffic is now flowing in both directions, officials are cautioning that the site remains an active construction zone for several more weeks. Drivers are being urged to slow down, obey posted signage, and remain alert for crews still working in the area.

Since construction began, the eastbound closure from Vic West into downtown significantly altered traffic patterns across the city, diverting vehicles to the Johnson Street Bridge. Traffic signal timing and management measures were adjusted there to help handle increased volumes.

Even with the bridge reopened, intermittent overnight closures are still expected as crews complete remaining work and prepare the project for full completion.

City officials say further signal timing changes are also being implemented at nearby intersections to improve safety and manage turning movements onto the bridge, including the replacement of a permissive left turn with a turning light.

Drivers are encouraged to continue monitoring the City of Victoria’s construction updates as the project approaches completion and traffic patterns continue to stabilize.