J. C. Van Horne Bridge

The J.C. Van Horne Bridge is a steel structure crossing the Restigouche River between Campbellton in New Brunswick and Pointe-à-la-Croix in Quebec. The bridge features multiple approach spans with a large central cantilever-through-truss design that rises above the river to create a navigable channel for ships below.

Construction started in 1958 and finished in 1961 through a joint agreement among Canada, New Brunswick, and Quebec to build the structure together. It replaced a ferry and rail barge service that previously connected the two provinces across the river.

The bridge replaced a federal ferry service, marking a shift in transportation methods between provinces and transforming regional connectivity patterns.

The bridge has two traffic lanes and sidewalks for pedestrians and cyclists on both sides. It remains open year-round and provides views of the river valley and surrounding landscape from the crossing.

The central span stretches about 380 meters without any supports in the middle of the river, a remarkable engineering feat for its era. This wide opening allows larger cargo ships and other vessels to pass freely underneath the bridge.