The Hamlet Fixed and Swing Bridge in Washago is closing again - temporarily.
The bridgewas shut down in December of 2018 before finally being reopened in mid-February.
But officials say the bridge, located at the intersection of Canning Road and Peninsula Point Road, connecting the townships of Severn and Gravenhurst, will be closing to vehicle traffic on April 8.
The bridge, according to media release, is expected to be closed for approximately one month to address deficiencies. During this closure, the contractor will complete repairs on the mechanical systems which support/swing the bridge, complete final balancing of the swing bridge and complete remaining painting activities.
Parks Canada and Public Service & Procurement Canada (PSPC) are working together to overcome challenges and sustain the re-opening and full function of the bridge.
Parks Canada has formally instructed the contractor to implement a strict work plan in order to mitigate further delays and to adhere to quality control specifications.
As a part of an historic investment program along the Trent-Severn Waterway, Parks Canada replaced both the fixed and swing portions of the Hamlet Bridge on the Severn River.
The bridges were replaced with those of a similar look to preserve the historic landscape of the area. The new bridges have an upgraded capacity for service and emergency vehicles.
Due to their condition, the road abutments and east pier were also fully replaced. The mechanical and electrical systems of the bridge were also upgraded.
As well, the bridge and the bridge operator’s building were raised to reduce the risk of immersion of mechanical components during high water events. This will increase the lifespan and reliability of these components.
The mechanical and electrical systems of the bridge were also upgraded. The same flooding situation is true for the mechanical equipment in the bridge operator’s building; the building was replaced and the mechanical room was moved to road elevation.
About the Hamlet Bridges
The Hamlet Bridge is actually two bridges connected. The fixed portion was constructed in 1905 with a length of 30 metres. This Pratt Truss style bridge was originally located downstream, but moved upstream to meet the swing portion in 1922.
The swing portion of the bridge, constructed in 1915, is a Warren Truss bridge style and is 60 metres long. The swing portion is operated mechanically and serves to pass boats through the Trent-Severn Waterway from the Victoria Day weekend in May, until the Thanksgiving weekend in October.
This work is part of Parks Canada’s $3 billion investment over five years to support infrastructure work to heritage, tourism, waterway, and highway assets located within national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas across Canada.
For questions or concerns, or to receive email updates regarding this project, please contact us at [email protected] and include “Hamlet Bridge” in the subject heading.
For news about this or other infrastructure projects in the area, please visit www.parkscanada.gc.ca/tswseverngravenhurst.
