For immediate release Nov. 10, 2022

Blakeney Bridge to be closed for repairs starting Nov. 14

Blakeney Bridge in Mississippi Mills will be closed for a two-week period starting Monday, Nov. 14 in order to complete repairs required to restore the structure’s load capacity.

Recent inspections identified that the current 12-tonne load limit on the single-lane bridge should be further reduced to 5 tonnes unless remedial work is undertaken. The new load limit is now in effect.

“The work will consist of structural steel repairs to the girders and floor beams underneath, as well as concrete repairs on the deck top,” explain Sean Derouin, Lanark County public works manager. “Once the work is completed, we expect to be able to restore the load limit to 12 tonnes.”

The bridge consists of three structures crossing the Mississippi River between Almonte and Pakenham and is located on Blakeney Road just west of Blakeney. Travellers can bypass the bridge by detouring north through Pakenham to Kinburn Side Road or south through Almonte to Martin Street North.

Lanark County Council has authorized the replacement of the bridge, which was built in 1915, based on recommendations from the inspection reports. The replacement is expected to take place in 2023 or 2024, and a public information centre is planned for Dec. 1 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Almonte Community Centre. Learn more at www.lanarkcounty.ca/blakeneybridge.

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For more information/media interviews, contact: Sean Derouin

Public Works Manager Lanark County

1-888-9-LANARK, ext. 3194

E-mail: sderouin@lanarkcounty.ca