Landform Civil Infrastructures Inc. Suing Feds and Sigma Risk for $8M Over Failed Kingston Bridge Repair

Landform Civil Infrastructures Inc. (LCI) is embroiled in multiple lawsuits following a major project in Kingston, Ontario, where a century-old bridge, the LaSalle Causeway lift bridge, collapsed after failed repairs. The company is being sued by subcontractors and seeking over $8 million in damages from the federal government and an engineering firm, alleging negligence and defamation.

Subcontractors File $1.6 Million Lawsuit
Three subcontractors involved in the repair project are now suing LCI for unpaid invoices. Hughson Barriers Inc., Amson Welding and Steel Erecting Inc., and Mammoet Canada Eastern Ltd. are collectively demanding $1.6 million for their work, which includes supplies, equipment, and labor related to the bridge's restoration.

Amson Welding claims LCI reassured them that the project would resume despite the bridge’s severe damage in March 2024. However, the bridge was ultimately demolished in June 2024. Mammoet Canada Eastern Ltd. claims it is owed $699,944.60 for providing heavy counterweight equipment for the project. Despite multiple attempts to collect the payment, the subcontractors allege that LCI’s management has failed to settle their debts.

LCI's Response to Subcontractor Claims
LCI disputes the claims made by its subcontractors, insisting that they have been misled. The company maintains that no payments are due to subcontractors until the federal government settles its debts. In addition to the lawsuits filed against LCI, the contractor has also filed a counterclaim against Amson Welding, alleging that the company's work caused the government's delay in payment.

“Amson’s work compromised the structural integrity of the bridge,” said LCI, reinforcing their defense that the subcontractor’s actions were to blame for the delays and subsequent legal troubles.

Government’s Role in the Dispute
At the heart of LCI’s lawsuit is the contention that the federal government and an engineering firm, Sigma Risk, wrongly placed blame for the bridge’s collapse on LCI. According to LCI, Sigma Risk issued a "negligent" assessment of the situation that harmed the company's reputation. The company claims that their contract was executed properly, and that any issues with the bridge stemmed from faulty planning and incorrect assessments made by others involved in the project.

“The reality is Canada is responsible,” stated LCI in their court documents, arguing that the faulty bridge design, not their work, led to the collapse. LCI is seeking $8.17 million in damages due to reputational harm, loss of opportunities, and defamation.

The Bridge Collapse: A Major Setback
The LaSalle Causeway, a crucial transportation route in Kingston, Ontario, saw its bridge suffer significant damage in March 2024. The closure of the bridge caused major traffic congestion, financial losses for local businesses, and significant disruptions for commuters, particularly those traveling to nearby institutions like the Royal Military College of Canada. The bridge remained closed for several months before finally reopening in October.

Next Steps in Legal Proceedings
As of February 10, 2025, neither Sigma Risk nor the federal government has filed a defense statement. Legal experts believe that the case could set significant precedents for contractor liability, the role of government entities in public infrastructure projects, and the limits of subcontractor obligations.

The ongoing legal battle highlights the tensions that can arise in high-profile public works projects. With LCI’s reputation on the line and several parties claiming financial and reputational damages, the outcome of the case could have a lasting impact on how future infrastructure projects are managed and executed in Canada.

A Continued Legal Fight
With various parties—including subcontractors and government bodies—accusing each other of negligence, the fate of this case remains uncertain. The parties are expected to continue to pursue their legal actions in the coming months, with the potential for significant financial repercussions for all involved.

The legal proceedings are still ongoing, with both LCI and its subcontractors continuing their efforts to secure compensation for the damages they claim to have incurred during this complex and costly infrastructure project.

The subcontractors' claims over unpaid invoices highlight the challenges of managing large-scale projects, particularly when multiple parties are involved. LCI’s defense, which places blame on the federal government and the engineering firm Sigma Risk, raises important questions about accountability in public works projects. This case underscores the complexities of such ventures and the potential for significant legal and financial consequences when issues arise.

The damage caused by the LaSalle Causeway bridge collapse and its lengthy closure affected not only commuters but also local businesses, amplifying the stakes in this legal battle. As LCI pursues claims for reputational harm and damages, the case underscores the intricate relationships between contractors, subcontractors, and government bodies. The outcome will likely influence how infrastructure projects are managed, and how liability is assigned when issues arise. The ongoing legal proceedings will set precedents for future construction disputes in Canada.

Landform Civil Infrastructures Inc. (LCI) is a Canadian company specializing in bridge rehabilitation, repair, and civil infrastructure projects. Founded in 2018, LCI has quickly become a trusted supplier for bridge construction, demolition, repair, and custom projects across Canada, including in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and the Yukon. The company is known for its commitment to safety, quality, and efficient project execution, guided by a strong focus on environmental responsibility and health standards.

LCI's CEO, Derek Martin, brings over two decades of experience overseeing large-scale projects exceeding $1 billion in revenue. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, including bridge jacking, welding, custom steel fabrication, and post-tensioning. LCI prides itself on transparent communication and building strong, strategic partnerships to deliver successful, cost-effective projects. Based in Hamilton, Ontario, LCI aims to improve Canada’s infrastructure while maintaining the highest industry standards.

Canada reveals international student enrolment limits for 2025