South Bruce Peninsula residents are being asked for their input on the future of Jewel Bridge in the north end of Sauble Beach.
It’s over 100 years old, having been built in 1920.
A consultant’s presentation from Tatham engineering June 21st, says the bridge has gone beyond its design service life. It also says, “There are limited sight lines when approaching the bridge from the west, and emergency vehicles such as fire trucks, and snow removal vehicles cannot cross.”
The Town is doing an environmental assessment and is looking to determine the preferred method of improvement to the bridge. The June 21st presentation did not include cost estimates for the various options.
Jewel Bridge’s load limit is currently at five tonnes. Options include reducing the load limit, rehabilitating the bridge, replacing it with a one or two-lane bridge, or closing and removing it. Another option could be rerouting traffic along an unopened road allowance between 6th St. North and Spring Creek Road, though consultants say that would have a large environmental impact.
The deadline for comment is Friday, July 12.