Province gives green light to new Beaver River bridge

DARRYL KNIGHTThe Standard

BROCK: After several months of closure, there is a plan to reopen the Beaver River bridge in Beaverton.

The bridge has been closed since late last year due to structural issues. Over the ensuing months, local councillors have actively lobbied with the provincial government for potential solutions, including temporary and permanent solutions to reopen one of the main passageways into Beaverton. The closure has resulted in issues with school bus routes, snow-clearing efforts, and increased traffic volume on other local roads due to the continued closure.

Last week though, Regional Councillor Mike Jubb issued a statement which had been months in the making. The province has heard the message following a meeting with provincial ministers in Toronto, word came from the province’s treasury board that approval had been granted for both the temporary and permanent bridge structures.

“This is extremely good news,” commented Councillor Jubb. “The squeaky wheel gets the grease, and moving forward with temporary and permanent solutions, they’ll work in tandem.”

Councillor Jubb noted the project still requires final approval from the Region of Durham, but he was confident it will be fast-tracked. Rest assured, contractor Algonquin Bridge has already begun work on the project to expedite delivery and alleviate traffic concerns into and around Beaverton. We are committed to keeping you updated on the progress and ensuring a smooth transition during this period.

While timelines are still in flux and design work is currently happening behind the scenes, township staff are hopeful the temporary bridge can reopen during the summer.