Bridges

Bridge Master Plan

In 2019 the Municipality initiated a Bridge Infrastructure Master Plan to identify future infrastructure needs associated with the 17 oldest bridges. Constructed from 1910-1950, it is anticipated that the crossings will require significant rehabilitation or replacement in the next 20 years and, as a group, represent a significant capital commitment for the Municipality. The Master Plan process considered a range of factors associated with each bridge including traffic volumes, capacity, local and regional transportation linkages, expected replacement cost, and potential heritage value.

Based on the options that were considered, Arran-Elderslie Council has selected a preferred approach which is to continue to repair or replace crossings. This option means that the Municipality will continue maintaining, repairing, and replacing bridge structures as necessary to ensure the transportation network stays safe and connected, provided these investments continue to be financially sustainable within municipal budgets.

Below are some resources related to the development of the Bridge Master Plan:

February 13, 2023 - B.M. Ross & Associates Limited - Bridge Infrastructure Master Plan

January 29, 2024 - Bridge Master Plan - B.M Ross & Associate Presentation

February 10, 2025 - B.M. Ross & Associates - 2024 Bridge Inspection Report and Master Plan

June 9, 2025 - PWRDS-2025-14 Bridge Infrastructure Master Plan

November 10, 2025 - Paisley Ward Councillor - Notice of Motion - Bridge Study

November 24, 2025 - Bridge Master Plan Reconsideration -Supplementary Report

December 17, 2025 - Notice of Public Information Session

Bridge Master Plan - Public Information Session Notice - December 17, 2025 Bridge Maser Plan - Public Information Session Presentation - December 17, 2025

Bridges in Arran-Elderslie: Connecting Communities

Bridges are more than just structures—they are vital links that keep our municipality connected and thriving. Arran-Elderslie maintains 62 bridges across the municipality.

Here are some key facts and insights about bridges in our community and beyond:

Why Bridges Matter

Bridges ensure safe travel for emergency vehicles, school buses, and daily commuters, reducing detours and delays.
In rural areas like ours, where alternative routes are limited, a single bridge closure can significantly disrupt daily life.
For residents who rely on horse and buggy transportation, such as members of the Mennonite community, bridges are essential for mobility.

Safety and Legal Responsibility

Under Ontario’s Municipal Act and Minimum Maintenance Standards, municipalities must keep bridges in a “reasonable state of repair” to ensure public safety.
Regular inspections—at least every two years—are required by provincial standards and follow the Ontario Structure Inspection Manual.

Maintenance and Longevity

A well-maintained bridge reduces accident risks and extends its lifespan, saving costs on emergency repairs and replacements.
Inspections allow early detection of issues like cracks, corrosion, or drainage problems, preventing costly failures.
Common maintenance tasks include cleaning, sealing concrete, repairing joints, and ensuring proper drainage.

Our Commitment

Arran-Elderslie is dedicated to:

Maintaining bridges to meet safety standards.
Planning for repairs and replacements.
Engaging the community in decisions about infrastructure priorities.

The Municipality continues to invest in it's infrastructure to ensure safe, sustainable, and cost-effective infrastructure for our community. To support this commitment, the Municipality has developed a Bridge Master Plan.

Municipality of Arran Elderslie
1925 Bruce Road 10, Box 70
Chesley ON, N0G 1L0

Phone: 519-363-3039
Fax: 519-363-2203