It’s a discussion many Wallaceburg residents have been waiting for.
A report being presented at Monday night’s council meeting recommends a $2.3 million tender for rehabilitation of the LO Stonehouse Memorial Walking Bridge be awarded to Hamilton-based Dayson Industrial Services.
In addition, another $114,695 in consulting engineering fees be paid to Dillon Consulting. Dillon was hired in 2020 to complete a detailed condition assessment, followed by an engineering report in 2022.
The bridge, originally built in 1910 and converted to a pedestrian crossing in 1983, has been shut down since November, 2021 due to safety concerns.
The scope of the contract work includes:
- Removal and replacement of the main span and lift span with a truss structure like the existing structure.
- The width of the lift span will be increased to match the width of the other spans.
- Rehabilitate and recoat the north span and south span.
- Mechanical and electrical upgrades to the winch tower and controls.
- Installation of new concrete light standards.
- Installation of LED accent lighting.
- Modifications to some of the concrete piers.
If approved, the project would have to be completed by May 15, 2024 to coincide with the beginning of the navigation season on the Sydenham River.
The cost of the project will be funded through the municipality’s Bridge Lifecycle Reserve.