spot_img
Thursday, August 21, 2025
spot_img

Council votes in favour of pedestrian crossing to replace Confederation Bridge

spot_img

During Monday night’s Committee of the Whole meeting, Smiths Falls’ town council received a report from Director of Public Works and Utilities Paul McMunn. This report included the finalization of the environmental assessment study of the long-closed historic Confederation Bridge, and requested council to make a decision on whether the bridge should be removed, replaced as a vehicular crossing, or replaced as a pedestrian crossing. 

This report drew wide response from all members of council.

Of the four bridge options presented by engineering firm McIntosh Perry, the most economical option is a 2-span truss pedestrian bridge, estimated to cost approximately $1,220,000. This is the option staff recommended, although, McMunn noted “there is some local interest in a vehicular crossing.” A single-lane vehicular crossing is estimated to cost approximately twice the price at $2,400,000.

Lisa Marshall from McIntosh Perry noted that in the existing design, piers and abutments are being replaced. If any of them can be saved/used, costs could further be reduced.

Councilor Stephen Robinson voiced his opinion in favour of a replacement with a new vehicular and pedestrian bridge

“The cost, while high, is not going to get lower the longer it takes to resolve,” he said. “I’m asking for council’s support for this, as we already have the public’s support.”

Councilor Dawn Quinn agreed. “The people in the town of Smiths Falls have spoken; they would like the bridge back there,” she said emphatically. “Centennial Park is a gorgeous park. …We do need the bridge back. The park is a great gathering spot. They love to be there. To me, this is what we need.”

Mayor Shawn Pankow thanked staff for their report, and asked council to consider what kind of community and experience they are trying to create. “A place for people. An environment that contributes to the health and well-being of our community. Do we want or need cars driving through our park?”  He continued, “Can we justify a $2.4 million dollar expense when we have an infrastructure deficit? In the end, we need to ask ourselves why.” He pointed out that 60% of the cost of the pedestrian bridge could be covered by an Active Transportation grant.

Councilors McGuire and Miller agreed with Mayor Pankow, although McGuire questioned the need for any crossing there at all.

“It’s clear to me that a pedestrian bridge is the best option,” said Councilor Jennifer Miller, “It will make our waterfront more enticing for residents and tourists, and it’s less expensive … Having the bridge out of commission for so long has trained us all to take new routes.”

Councilor Jay Brennan was disappointed that council wasn’t unanimous in support of replacing the vehicular crossing. “The bridge has been closed for 7 years. I’ve been advocating for it to be replaced. I thought I was successful in the election [and] I ran on this. I am in favour of a vehicular bridge with pedestrian features.”

Councilor Peter McKenna was also in support of a pedestrian bridge going forward, but acknowledged the tone of the meeting. “None of us like to have council split like this. 

Sometimes wants and needs are different, and the need for a vehicular bridge isn’t warranted.

I’m in favour of a pedestrian bridge.”

Article by Janelle Labelle

spot_img
spot_img

Hot this week

Smiths Falls Police address crash, bar incident and youth assault in series of responses

SUBMITTED No injuries after collision with hydro pole. Driver facing...

King Charles III Coronation Medal recognizes exceptional Canadians

LAURIE WEIR In a special ceremony hosted by Lanark—Frontenac—Kingston MP...

UCDSB to host holocaust survivor Andy Rèti as Tour for Humanity returns

SUBMITTED The Tour for Humanity mobile classroom will return to...

Smiths Falls History & Mystery: Farmer grocer solider reeve

Ambrose Halladay moved into the Keyhole House in Smiths...

Impaired charge laid after a collision on Roger Stevens Drive

SUBMITTED A Toronto resident has been charged following a single...
spot_img

Stolen boat motor recovered in Arden

SUBMITTED BY OPP EAST REGION Arrest Warrant To Be Issued...

Council divided over veto, integrity complaints, and strong mayor powers in Rideau Lakes

LAURIE WEIR CHANTRY — The controversy around the Chantry office...

Disturbance results in multiple charges

SUBMITTED BY LANARK COUNTY OPP CARLETON PLACE - The Lanark...

Butterflies take flight again in Perth for second annual memorial release

Community gathers Aug. 20 to honour loved ones through...

Canada Post clarifies that the red flag’s only use is for outgoing mail

LAURIE WEIR PORTLAND — Rural residents, did you know that...

Six charged in Smiths Falls police investigations including impaired driving and animal cruelty

SUBMITTED / SMITHS FALLS POLICE SERVICE Breach investigation results in...

HOMETOWN HAPPENINGS: Markets, music and family fun this weekend

Looking for something to do this weekend? We’ve got...

Related Articles

Popular Categories

spot_img