Info-Work: Hamlet Fixed and Swing Bridge

Peterborough, Ontario, January 30 2020 –Parks Canada would like to advise the public that infrastructure work is continuing on the Hamlet Fixed and Swing Bridge on the Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site, which will require an ongoing closure for vehicle traffic.

Visitor and public safety are a priority for Parks Canada. A number of key safety elements to finalize this full fixed and swing bridge replacement remain. Parks Canada is working closely with the contractor to ensure specific safety components of the project are addressed and until the Agency is satisfied with the project plans, the bridge will remain closed until further notice.

While the bridge is physically able to close now, important work on such aspects as the guardrails, lighting and temporary support systems, must be performed to meet all safety standards. These elements play a critical role for the safety of individuals, the protection of the new bridge, and the protection of vehicles.

Parks Canada recognizes the closure of the Hamlet Bridge project impacts local communities and is seeking ways to minimize the inconveniences. For example, the requisite balance testing, originally scheduled for the spring, has been moved forward in order to avoid the need for an additional multi-day closure after the bridge becomes operational and open.

Parks Canada appreciates that the closure to facilitate this work has been inconvenient to residents and visitors alike and appreciates your further patience and understanding for this additional delay. Please rest assured that Parks Canada is working diligently with the contractor to complete this project as soon as possible. When complete, the fully replaced Hamlet Fixed and Swing Bridge will have a lifespan of 75 years, will have an upgraded capacity for service and emergency vehicles, while still maintaining a similar look of the previous bridge to preserve the historic landscape of the area.

Parks Canada is leading important infrastructure work 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, including along the Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site.

For questions or concerns, or to receive email updates regarding this project, please contact us at Ont.TrentSevern@pc.gc.ca and include “Hamlet Bridge” in the subject heading. For news about this or other infrastructure projects in your area, please visit www.parkscanada.gc.ca/tswseverngravenhurst.