Blackwater Bridge closure sparks urgency for repairs

DARRYL KNIGHT The Standard

BROCK: Council addressed the pressing matter of the deteriorating Blackwater Bridge, at their meeting, on Monday, December 2nd. The decision follows a report, presented by James Peitos, a Certified Engineering Technologist for Brock, outlining the bridge's deteriorating condition and urgent need for repairs.

The 11.32-meter single-span bridge, featuring a fiberglass-wrapped timber deck and asphalt surface, has shown significant wear. The fibreglass encasement of one of the deck panels, damaged prior to paving, has allowed moisture to seep into the untreated timber deck. Mr. Peitos stated, visual inspections conducted with Chisholm Fleming and Associates (CFA), on October 9th, revealed severe deterioration, including cracks in the wingwalls and worsening deck conditions.

“The safety of our residents and local traffic [are] paramount,” Mr. Peitos explained. “Given the extent of the damage, the bridge can no longer safely support heavy loads or the weight of snowplows.”

Township staff has confirmed the Blackwater Bridge will remain closed for the winter. While it is still accessible to local traffic, with a posted maximum load of five tonnes, reduced speed limits and prohibitions on commercial trucks are in effect. However, without the ability to plow snow, the bridge will be inaccessible during the winter months.

“It’s not an easy decision,” said Mayor Walter Schummer, “but ensuring public safety and preventing further deterioration of the bridge is non-negotiable.”

Council has authorized immediate steps, to commence rehabilitation work on the bridge, targeting a completion date, before March 28th, 2025. This deadline aligns with seasonal weather constraints and regulations from the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority. Missing this timeline could delay construction until July 2025.

The rehabilitation project, managed by CFA, includes deck and wingwall repairs. The total estimated cost is $841,407, including $76,681 for CFA’s project management services. Currently, $434,166 is allocated to the project, from the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund and deferred revenue, leaving a funding gap of $407,242. Council has approved withdrawing the required amount from the Township’s Roads and Bridges Reserve which is expected to have a balance of $1,977,226 by the end of 2025, after the withdrawal.

Council also emphasized the importance of keeping residents informed about the project’s progress and potential disruptions. “We’ll continue to update the public on the bridge's condition and upcoming construction timelines,” Mr. Peitos assured.

Council endorsed the closure and rehabilitation plan, to ensure the bridge is fully operational by spring of 2025. Regional Councillor Mike Jubb summed up the discussion, stating, “This is a critical step, to ensure the safety and longevity of a vital piece of our infrastructure.”