For immediate release Nov. 10, 2022

Information session for Blakeney Bridge planned for Dec. 1

Lanark County is planning to replace the Blakeney Bridge and wants to hear from you!

The bridge crosses the Mississippi River between Almonte and Pakenham and is located on Blakeney Road just west of Blakeney. It consists of three structures and was built in 1915, currently serving an average of 400 cars per day. Recent inspections have prompted a load limit of 5 tonnes, which is now in effect, and have identified the need to replace the bridge as soon as possible, likely in 2023 or 2024 using a modular panel bridge. The county has authorized repairs in an effort to restore the previous 12-tonne limit. The bridge will be closed for two weeks starting Nov. 14 to complete the work.

“Public and agency consultation is an important component of the project,” said Sean Derouin, Lanark County public works manager. “Lanark County Council will determine whether the bridge will be replaced with a single-lane or two-lane structure once the consultation process of the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) undertaking is complete. The options review is a priority for the county due to the bridge’s age and condition, the posted weight restriction, and its potential cultural and heritage value.”

The EA process applies to municipal infrastructure projects, including road and bridge works. It is currently proceeding as a Schedule B process in accordance with the manual issued by the Municipal Engineers Association but is subject to change.

A public information centre (PIC) is part of the process and this will be held in a drop-in format on Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Almonte and District Community Centre, 182 Bridge St., Almonte. There will be displays showing design options and information regarding their cultural heritage impact. County staff will be on hand to answer questions.

Once comments and necessary approvals are received, the county plans to proceed with the planning, design and construction of the project. The matter is scheduled to be discussed at the council meeting on Dec. 14 at 5 p.m., 99 Christie Lake Road, Perth. The public can attend in person or virtually through the county’s Facebook page. As part of the EA process, a “notice of completion” is sent to affected agencies and the public for a 30-day review period prior to implementation.

Anyone is welcome to attend the PIC or submit comments by e-mail to blakeneybridge@lanarkcounty.ca no later than Dec. 7. More information can be found at www.lanarkcounty.ca/blakeneybridge.

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