Thursday, October 30, 2025
The District Municipality of Muskoka has selected Clearwater Construction Inc. to complete the rehabilitation of the historic Silver Bridge in Bracebridge, marking a key milestone in the project’s progress toward reopening.
District officials are finalizing contract details, with construction staging and rehabilitation design expected to begin immediately.
“I’m incredibly pleased that collaboration between District staff and our industry partners has allowed us to make such significant progress in such a short time,” said James Steele, Commissioner of Engineering and Public Works. “Everyone involved clearly understood how important this infrastructure is to the community and worked quickly to move the project forward.”
Initial on-site work is expected to begin before the end of the year, allowing construction activity to continue through the winter, provided conditions remain safe and suitable for the crews.
Silver Bridge will remain closed to all traffic during the rehabilitation period. Preliminary schedules indicate the structure could reopen in the fourth quarter of 2026.
Detour routes remain in place, and navigation apps have been updated through Municipal 511 to help motorists plan alternate travel routes. The District will continue to provide regular updates, including construction milestones and safety advisories, as the project progresses.
“The District selecting Clearwater Construction marks a major step toward returning the Silver Bridge to service,” said Bracebridge Mayor Rick Maloney. “The bridge is an important transportation link for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. We’re grateful to the community for their continued patience and understanding as this critical work moves forward safely.”
The Silver Bridge, located on Ecclestone Drive in downtown Bracebridge, spans the north branch of the Muskoka River near the Bracebridge Falls Dam. Built in the late 1920s, the three-span structure features two steel girder approach spans and a 46metre main “through truss” span, making it one of Muskoka’s few remaining heritage truss bridges.
The bridge underwent major rehabilitations in 1985 and 2001, which included deck repairs, truss strengthening, and recoating of steel members. Its distinctive design and silver finish have made it a longstanding landmark and symbol of Bracebridge’s history and identity
Featured image: (District Municipality of Muskoka)
