Dear Members,
The Port of Montreal issued the attached notice to industry late last week indicating that work to restore the stone bedding protecting the Louis-Hippolyte-La Fontaine Tunnel is expected to begin the week of August 17 and continue through December 2026.
The work will involve a barge and tug operating in three areas along the tunnel’s axis: north of the shipping channel, within the shipping channel and south of the shipping channel.
The Port advises that maritime traffic will be prioritized at all times and that existing water depths will be maintained. While most vessel movements are expected to proceed without disruption, delays to some arrivals and departures may occur depending on the location and timing of the work. The St. Lawrence Seaway has also issued the following notice to that effect regarding downbound vessels arriving at the Saint-Lambert lock. The Port has assured us, however, that they will be having daily coordination calls with the contractor, Canadian Coast Guard, Seaway and pilot corporations to ensure that vessel traffic fluidity is maintained.
We invite members to refer to the attached notice for further details, and to contact the undersigned with any questions or concerns.
Best regards,
Nathan Phillips,
Acting Manager, Marine Affairs