Bracebridge’s Black Bridge is officially re-opened.
On Tuesday, Mayor Graydon Smith was joined by MPP Norm Miller, and members of Council to officially re-open the Black Bridge and unveil a new plaque commemorating the history of the bridge.
“It was a pleasure to celebrate the history of the old bridge and officially open the new bridge that will continue to serve the community for decades to come,” stated Mayor Graydon Smith. “The involvement of the local residents throughout this project was invaluable.”
In June 2021, the Town of Bracebridge completed the project to replace the bridge crossing the South Branch of the Muskoka River on Matthiasville Road. The $2.76 million bridge construction project was funded through a joint federal and provincial grant.
In 2019, the Town received $2.13 million dollars under the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program – Rural and Northern Communities Infrastructure Stream.
“A bridge inspection conducted in 2016 had concluded that the 98-year old Black Bridge had reached the end of its useful service life and should be replaced,” said Yvon Gravel, Engineering Technologist, Public Works Department. “Following a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Study, replacement of the old bridge with a bowstring truss-type bridge painted black was deemed the best solution.”
The new structure permits the passage of all motor vehicles legally permitted on Ontario highways, and features a concrete sidewalk within the bridge trusses, on the downstream side.
The Black Bridge is an important asset to Bracebridge as it is relied upon by first responders and serves as a crucial piece of transportation infrastructure for area residents.
Photo via Town of Bracebridge