In response to the growing number of users of the Baie-Comeau/Godbout Ferry, the Société des traversiers du Québec (STQ) decided to commission a vessel with increased loading capacity that can accommodate 800 passengers and 180 vehicles.
The main objective of the project was to modify the dock facilities based on the size and shape of the new vessel, while continuing to use the existing vessel.
The team carried out the work of adapting the boarding ramps, docking systems and fender systems, repairing the docks, modifying the docking equipment, industrial electrical work, dredging the river bed and earth works.
In addition, the existing pedestrian bridges at the Baie-Comeau site were replaced by mobile pedestrian bridges of Scandinavian design, representing a first in Québec.
The team conducted berthing and mooring studies, along with optimization, conceptual and environmental studies, prepared drawings and specifications, estimates and request for proposals documents, carried out work supervision and provided quality control services.
The phased execution method allowed the ferry service between Baie-Comeau and Godbout to remain in operation throughout the construction work.
Environmental innovation
To avoid contaminating the waters of the Saint Lawrence River with oil from the existing hydraulic systems, the team opted for biodegradable oil for all of the new hydraulic systems: boarding ramps and pedestrian bridges.