The City of Winnipeg initiated a public consultation process in 1998 to find the best plan for the future of the Provencher Bridge that would be: technically sound; reflect the needs of the community and city in general; cost-effective; environmentally responsible; and, be generally understood and accepted by most of those affected. A Project Advisory Committee (PAC) was formed with representatives from the communities on both sides of the bridge and, as well, city wide organizations interested in or affected by the project were also included.

In November 1999, the PAC reached consensus on a project plan to recommend to City Council the New Paired Bridges alternative, which features a new vehicular span, and a separate pedestrian bridge.

On September 5, 2000, Winnipeg's City Council approved the preliminary design and authorized the start of detailed design and environmental licensing for the Paired Bridges, to replace the existing Provencher Bridge. The Vehicular Bridge has been under construction since July of 2001.

The Pedestrian Bridge was tendered in June of 2002 for work to commence in August, 2002. On September 6, 2002, a sod-turning ceremony was held, with all three levels of government present, to officially begin the construction of the Pedestrian Bridge.

The Pedestrian Bridge is a cable-stayed structure. The 40 m high pylon supports a 5 m wide concrete deck spanning 106 m and 86 m. The cable-stayed structure features a large plaza for commercial activities at the pylon - quite unique for a North American bridge.

The Paired Bridges are expected to strengthen the connection between The Forks and the St. Boniface French Quarter, becoming a symbolic gateway between two of Winnipeg's most historically significant communities.

The entire project is scheduled for completion in the Fall of 2003.