A new crack detected on the eastbound (Montreal) side of the Île-aux-Tourtes bridge has forced the Ministère des Transports et de la Mobilité durable (MTMD) to close one lane of traffic. 

The two-lane-per-direction configuration planned for the weekend will be maintained on Monday for analysis.

As part of its regular monitoring of the condition of the infrastructure, the MTMD paid particular attention during the first frost episodes, and spotted a new crack on the Montreal-bound side of the bridge.

The extension of the closure by an additional lane is necessary while analyses are carried out on the appearance of this crack.

These will determine whether further action is required. At present, it cannot be ruled out that other traffic lanes may have to be closed.

Traffic on the bridge remains safe, and in case of doubt, the Ministry will not hesitate to close a structure.