The timeline for reopening Bracebridge’s key traffic artery, the Silver Bridge, remains uncertain.
At the most recent Bracebridge General Committee meeting, Councillor Brenda Rhodes provided an update from the District of Muskoka, which is responsible for the bridge’s maintenance and repairs.
Rhodes said the District is currently reviewing and narrowing down the Requests for Proposals (RFPs) that have been submitted. The goal remains to begin repairs this fall, and she noted that some companies have indicated they could continue work through the winter.
The overall duration of the project is still unknown. However, Rhodes stated she hopes to return to the committee with more detailed information soon.
The issue first came to light on Monday, January 6, 2025, when Bracebridge Operations staff reported clearance issues for sidewalk equipment on the bridge. This led to a detailed inspection by District personnel and a Senior Structural Engineer.
The inspection revealed deformation in the bridge’s truss members. Further assessments identified the main issue as a failure at a connection point on the western truss, where both gusset plates were found to be sheared and buckled. This failure has caused structural misalignment, prompting safety concerns and the bridge’s continued closure.
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