Stabilization work on the covered border bridge in Potton, QC completed

The Government of Quebec announced that the stabilization work on the covered Border Bridge in Potton is complete.

Thanks to a swift response and close collaboration between technical teams and local authorities, the covered bridge is now stabilized. This intervention was necessary due to the critical condition of the covered bridge and its risk of collapse towards the adjacent structure.

“We acted with determination and flexibility in managing this matter in order to secure the existing infrastructure and ensure the preservation of this heritage symbol. The completion of the stabilization work on the covered border bridge marks a new stage in the continuation of its long history,” said Jonatan Julien, Minister of Transport and Sustainable Mobility.

In December 2024, noting a risk of collapse of the covered bridge towards the neighbouring structure, the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility (MTMD) issued a technical opinion recommending that the necessary interventions be assessed and carried out to stabilize it, before December 31, 2025.

The work involved repairing the southern abutment, which was the source of the subsidence. To achieve this, a permanent support structure was built within the existing caisson, providing a new, more robust base for the covered bridge. Deteriorated wooden components of the same foundation were also replaced.

“The Municipality is delighted with the completion of the stabilization work on this iconic covered bridge in our region. It thanks the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility for its collaboration, which ensures the preservation of this heritage infrastructure, valued by residents and visitors alike, for years to come,” said Louis Veillon, mayor of Potton.

Built in 1896, the Frontier Covered Bridge, spanning Mud Creek, is located on the edge of Covered Bridge Road in Potton, near the intersection of Bellevue and Province Hill Roads. In 1967, the structure was closed to vehicular traffic, and then in 2014, pedestrian access was also prohibited for safety reasons.

“The covered bridge at La Frontière in Potton, one of the oldest in Quebec, was designated a heritage building on October 28, 2024, by the Ministry of Culture and Communications. It has historical value, and that is why I am so pleased that we were able to ensure its preservation. The Potton covered bridge is a jewel to be preserved within our heritage. A wonderful accomplishment of which I am very proud,” said Gilles  Bélanger, Minister of Cybersecurity and Digital Affairs and MP for Orford.

On December 1st the Municipality of Potton committed by resolution to recognize itself as the owner of the covered bridge and to assume responsibility for its maintenance, as soon as the stabilization operation was completed by the MTMD.

Featured image: (Municipality of the Township of Potton)