Community Update: Hamlet Bridges

Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site

As a part of a historic investment program along the Trent-Severn Waterway, work to replace both the fixed and swing portions of the Hamlet Bridge on the Severn River will soon begin. The Hamlet Bridge is located at the intersection of Canning Road and Peninsula Point Road, and connects the townships of Severn and Gravenhurst. 

In response to concerns expressed by residents regarding access for emergency vehicles during construction, Parks Canada has been in contact with CN Rail. CN Rail Traffic Controllers, CN Police, and CN’s engineering division has been made aware of the project and the potential for reduced emergency access to residents when trains pass. CN officials have provided the following information:

Should a train need to be stopped for an extended period of time, CN will communicate with emergency responders. Further, residents are advised of the CN emergency number:  1-800-465-9239

An agent from this line will be able to communicate with rail traffic controllers in order to verify the cause of the stopped train and determine a timeline. In some instances, the train can be split should local emergency services need to get through. 

About the Hamlet Bridge

Hamlet fixed bridge in the foreground, connected to the Hamlet Swing Bridge.
The Hamlet Bridge is actually two bridges connected. The fixed portion was constructed in 1905 with a length of 30 metres. This Pratt Truss style bridge was originally located downstream, but moved upstream to meet the swing portion in 1922. The swing portion of the bridge, constructed in 1915, is a Warren Truss bridge style and is 60 metres long.  
Due to their condition, the east and west bridge abutments and the east pier will be fully replaced. The mechanical and electrical systems of the bridge will also be upgraded. As well, the bridge and the bridge operator’s building will be raised to reduce the risk of immersion of mechanical components during high water events. This will increase the lifespan and reliability of these components.

How to stay informed about the project:

For questions or concerns, or to receive email updates regarding this project, please contact us at Ont.TrentSevern@pc.gc.ca and include “Hamlet” in the subject heading. Or, stay up-to-date on construction projects, boating, and other activities by following our social media channels: Twitter @trentsevernNHS and Facebook/trentsevernNHS. To find information about this, or other infrastructure projects in your area, please visit www.parkscanada.gc.ca/tswSevernGravenhurst or www.parkscanada.gc.ca/tswInfrastructure.  

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