WORK TO REPAIR SILVER BRIDGE IN BRACEBRIDGE BEGINS THIS FALL FOR RE-OPENING IN A YEAR’S TIME

Mark Clairmont | MuskokaTODAY.com

BRACEBRIDGE — A year from now drivers should be close to crossing the Silver Bridge again by car.

That’s the dream of town and District of Muskoka staff as they finalize contract details with Clearwater Construction to repair — rather than replace the iconic 1920 three-span bridge closed on Jan. 6 this year.

Officials are finalizing contract details with the bridge builder for work to begin in November and December. Initial on-site work will allow construction to continue through the winter — provided conditions remain safe and suitable for the crews.

Preliminary schedules call for the bridge could reopen in the fourth quarter of 2026.

Jan. 6 Bracebridge town operations staff spotted concerning buckling above the bridge along the pedestrian walkway. PHOTOS District of Muskoka

On Monday, January 6, Bracebridge town operations staff noticed that the clearance for sidewalk equipment on the bridge looked different than usual. That prompted a closer inspection by district staff and a senior structural engineer, which revealed some deformation in the bridge’s truss members.

District staff first determined if the bridge could even be repaired before hiring Clearwater.

The Silver Bridge, on Ecclestone Drive in downtown Bracebridge, spans the north branch of the Muskoka River near the Bracebridge Falls Dam.

Built in the late 1920s, the three-span structure features two steel girder approach spans and a 46metre main “through truss” span, making it one of Muskoka’s few remaining heritage truss bridges.

The bridge underwent major rehabilitations in 1985 and 2001, which included deck repairs, truss strengthening, and recoating of steel members.

Its distinctive design and silver finish have made it a longstanding landmark and symbol of Bracebridge’s history and identity.

It’s also comprises the town’s logo.

For the latest project updates, contractor selection process, and background on the Silver Bridge rehabilitation, visit www.engagemuskoka.ca/silver-bridge

The top view centre bottom, Figure 2, best shows buckling discovered in a subsequent engineering inspection by town, district and consultant engineers.

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