The project was divided into three phases, expected to cost a total of $68 million. Phase 1 consisted of the prevention of erosion along the shorelines, improvements to the nearby drainage system, and the construction of dikes and "aboiteaux"; the work was carried out from 7 July 2008, to 14 April 2010. Phase 2 consists of opening the gates to monitor river flow, both upstream and downstream, for two years. Phase 3, commenced in 2012, consisted of the bridge's development and the removal of the causeway, and is anticipated to be completed in 2021. Confusion arose as to whether or not the project would be funded by the federal government. They refused, in spite of an earlier comment from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, which had hinted at a possible negotiation. Unwilling to wait, the provincial government came forward with an initial $20 million on 7 July 2008, to begin the first phase.