FAQs
Why is the bridge being rehabilitated now?
The Township currently has 44 bridges and large culvert assets that have a span (length of crossing) of three metres or greater. All of these structures are required to be inspected by a qualified engineer once every two years under Ontario Regulation 104/97 Standards for Bridges. Inspection procedures follow the outline of the Ontario Structure Inspection Manual.
In 2021, the Sydenham Lake Bridge and Dam was inspected by D.M. Wills and the findings indicated that the structure components are in good overall condition. The engineering report recommended the rehabilitation of various components including the concrete sidewalk, bridge deck and soffit, replacement of deck drains, new asphalt surface, and upgrading the pedestrian railing system.
When will construction start?
Construction of the roadway is expected to start May 2024 to August 2024.
Who will complete the work?
Construction activities will be led by Willis Kerr Contracting Ltd. Separate notices will be issued by their company for after hours contact information.
How will this affect traffic in the area?
Traffic access on George Street will be provided at all times, with occasional single-lane vehicle traffic during active construction. Traffic delays should be anticipated for the duration of the project. Drivers must drive with caution and obey all traffic signage and personnel at all times. Emergency services vehicles will have access through the construction site at all times.
How is this going to affect pedestrian access in the area?
Pedestrians will have access to at least one of the sidewalks during active construction. Notice will be provided at the nearest sidewalk located at road intersections directing pedestrians which sidewalk to use.
Will this affect parking?
The construction zone is located within a no parking area, so this will not impact parking.
Will my driveway access be impacted by construction?
Access to driveways may be restricted for a short period of time while certain works are being carried out. The Township will aim to provide a minimum of 24 hours notice ahead to residents of these planned disruptions.
Is there anything I need to do to prepare for this construction?
Landscaping features, flowers, fencing, or other physical objects located in the Township road allowance in front of your property may need to be relocated before construction to avoid damage. Landowners will be individually contacted where concerns are found.
Will the construction interfere with garbage or recycling collection?
There should be no impact to garbage and recycling collection. Residents should continue to place garbage and recycling out for collection at end of their driveway by 7 am on their regular collection day.
What will the Township do about dust control?
During construction, the Contractor will be responsible for dust control with site inspections completed by Township representatives.
How does the project consider fish, wildlife and species at risk?
The Sydenham Lake bridge and dam rehabilitation will not include the placement of any new permanent structures or fill within the adjacent waterways; however, mitigation efforts have been included in the project to protect the adjacent lake and shoreline environment. Consultations with the Conservation Authority and other agencies regarding project timing, water restrictions and/or measures included in the work area to protect the environment have been discussed.
When will crews be working?
Hours of construction on this project will typically be Monday to Friday from 7 am to 7 pm as per our Noise By-Law. Weekend work may only be considered late in the project if weather delays are encountered. If weekend work is deemed necessary, advance notice will be provided to the area so that residents may plan accordingly.
What do I do if I live on the road and have key events or activities (moving, family gatherings, weddings, pool installations, site construction, etc.) planned this summer?
If you have a special event or activity happening on your property this summer, contact our Public Services team in advance at 613-376-3027 or email pwsupport@southfrontenac.net.
How do I stay informed on this project as it progresses or get more information?
Residents within the work zone on George Street and the surrounding areas are encouraged to subscribe or follow this project page to stay up to date on the progress.
You can also reach out to us by phone or email with contact information for your property. This will help the Township keep you informed as the project continues. Email addresses can be used to push information updates to residents, however individual addresses will not be shared for any other purpose. For further information on the project please contact Public Services at 613-376-3027 or by email at pwsupport@southfrontenac.net. Please use the subject line “Sydenham Lake Bridge”.