Port of Sept-Îles Director Engineering & Sustainable Development, Manon D’Auteuil, Eng., notes, “The Port of Sept-Îles decided to install this gangway as an access ramp. Made out of aluminum and resistant to salt air, the ramp reflects the maritime aspect of the project. A wonderful invitation to come in and visit the Hermel and learn about its captain, Mylène Paquette, and her 129 day crossing of the Atlantic Ocean.”
The Port will display the 7.3-meter-long fiberglass row boat permanently as a way to grow the its prominence as a Tourism hub in the North Coast Region of Québec, where everyone from cruise ship passengers to vacationers and local school children will experience the boat up close and learn about Paquette’s voyage. The MakeABridge pedestrian bridges will ensure that all visitors have easy entry to the display of Paquette’s famous vessel, including those with disabilities.
Alex de la Chevrotière, P.Eng., President and CEO of MAADI Group, said, “We are thrilled to have our award-winning MakeABridge serve as the primary entryway in and out of the Port of Sept-Îles headquarters where Mylène Paquette’s boat exhibit inspires so many visitors of all ages. MAB is ideal for many applications, especially in ports and marinas where it will endure for decades against the wind, waves, and salt-water corrosion that coastal areas face. We are proud to be chosen to provide access to this high-profile attraction where thousands of people will cross our bridges every year. MakeABridge will become the pathway to experiencing Mylène Paquette’s journey!”
General Contractor for the Port of Sept-Îles project, Construction RIC inc., Sept-Îles, Qc, installed the two MAB pedestrian bridges according to the plans of BGLA Architecture + Design Urbain, Québec, Qc. The pedestrian bridges will provide full access to the popular Hermel boat display year-round. The Port of Sept-Îles is one of the most important ore ports in North America, playing a vital role in supporting the international transport of goods and the economy of eastern Canada.
The MakeABridge modular weld-free design is made with extruded aluminum for its truss structure and guardrails and patented cast aluminum tripod node joints that form an interlocking system. The bridge combines the truss design’s structural strength with the long-term benefits of maintenance-free and 100% recyclable aluminum.