Construction planned for Lakefield bridges in 2027; public information session on Sept. 17

By Stacey Sullivan

Residents and business owners are invited to attend a public information session on Thursday, September 17, to learn more about planned bridge construction in Lakefield next year.

Peterborough County is preparing for structural rehabilitation of Lakefield’s two bridges in 2027, with work planned to address ongoing structural issues and improve the driving surfaces. The drop-in session will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Niels Pind Room at the Lakefield Arena, 20 Concession Street, Lakefield.

Bridge reconstruction is planned for Lakefield in 2027, with Peterborough County working to address ongoing structural issues and improve the driving surfaces. Residents and business owners can learn more about the planned work at a public information session on September 17. (Photo: Stacey Sullivan, Discover Lakefield)

There will be no formal presentation. Members of the project team will be available throughout the session to discuss the planned work, answer questions, and hear from the community about the potential construction staging.

The project involves the rehabilitation of the two Lakefield bridges that cross the Otonabee River and Trent Canal. Peterborough County says the work is intended to address ongoing structural issues with the concrete elements and extend the useful life of the bridges.

Based on the condition of the bridges during their most recent inspection, the anticipated work includes:

• Asphalt pavement replacement

• Bridge deck concrete patching

• Bridge deck joint repairs

• Sidewalk and railing replacement

• Retaining wall repairs

The County notes that additional elements may need to be addressed as the design process progresses.

The two bridges are located in close proximity to one another, and the work is expected to be carried out concurrently. Construction timing will be determined through the design process and will depend on the type of construction staging selected.

How the work will be staged is expected to be an important consideration for the community, particularly given the bridges’ importance to local traffic, residents and businesses.

Peterborough County’s consultant, D.M. Wills, has been retained to complete the design and construction administration for the project. The consultant will provide alternatives for construction staging.

The County says it will work with the Township of Selwyn, emergency services, Lakefield businesses and the public to determine the most appropriate approach.

Pedestrian access across the bridges is expected to be maintained throughout the project, although there may be some intermittent interruptions.

With construction planned for 2027, the upcoming information session will provide an opportunity for Lakefield residents and businesses to learn more about what is being proposed and raise questions or concerns before the project moves further into the design process.

For more information on the bridge reconstruction project and the upcoming public information session, visit https://engage.ptbocounty.ca/rehabilitation-lakefield-bridges.