Info-Work: Fixed Bridge at Couchiching Lock 42 Open to Vehicles

Peterborough, Ontario, December 31, 2020 – Parks Canada is pleased to advise that the fixed bridge at Couchiching Lock 42 on Canal Road in Washago has been opened for vehicular traffic over the winter months.

Work at the site over the last year has included a full replacement of the fixed bridge, re-facing of the bridge abutments, and road work on the bridge approaches. Temporary road surfacing has been put into place for the winter to reduce the public impact of the closure, however several tasks remain before the bridge can be considered complete. Additional, short-term closures can be expected in the spring to finalize the project. Parks Canada will continue to work with colleagues at Public Service and Procurement Canada to reduce negative impacts as a result of construction as much as possible.

The previous fixed bridge at Couchiching Lock 42 was nearing the end of its lifespan and this full replacement will ensure long-term sustainability, while minimizing annual maintenance requirements. The new bridge will have a lifespan of approximately 50 years and ensure the quality and reliability of this important asset along the Trent-Severn Waterway.

Parks Canada is leading important infrastructure work along the Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site to ensure safe, high-quality experiences for visitors by improving heritage, visitor, waterway, and highway assets located within national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas.

For up-to-date news on infrastructure work along the Trent-Severn Waterway, please visit www.parkscanada.gc.ca/TSWinfrastructure.