The District Municipality of Muskoka has selected Clearwater Construction Inc. to complete the rehabilitation of the historic Silver Bridge in downtown Bracebridge, marking a key step toward reopening the landmark structure.
District officials are finalizing contract details, with construction staging and rehabilitation design expected to begin immediately. According to the District, initial on-site work is anticipated to start before the end of the year, continuing through the winter as long as weather and safety conditions permit.
The Silver Bridge will remain closed to all traffic throughout the rehabilitation period. Preliminary schedules suggest the bridge could reopen in the fourth quarter of 2026.
Detour routes are in place, and navigation applications have been updated through Municipal 511 to assist motorists with alternate travel routes. The District said it will continue providing regular public updates, including construction milestones and safety notices.
Bracebridge Mayor Rick Maloney said the contractor selection represents an important milestone for the project.
“The bridge is an important transportation link for residents, businesses, and visitors alike,” Maloney said. “We’re grateful to the community for their continued patience and understanding as this critical work moves forward safely.”
Built in the late 1920s, the Silver Bridge spans the north branch of the Muskoka River along Ecclestone Drive near the Bracebridge Falls Dam. The three-span structure includes two steel girder approach spans and a 46-metre main “through truss” span, making it one of Muskoka’s few remaining heritage truss bridges.
The bridge previously underwent major rehabilitation work in 1985 and 2001, which included deck repairs, truss strengthening, and steel recoating. Its silver-painted truss design has long made it a recognizable landmark and symbol of Bracebridge’s history.
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