Big Bay Culvert Replacement | Township of Georgian Bluffs

Georgian Bluffs is replacing the Culvert on Big Bay Sideroad to ensure long-term road safety and infrastructure stability.

This culvert has reached the end of its service life and is in critical condition, with visible signs of structural failure. Replacement work will improve road safety, prevent flooding, and ensure reliable access for the future.

Construction Timeline

Start Date: September 29, 2025
Total Project Budget: $650,000 ($150,000 for Design and Engineering, $500,000 for Construction)
Estimated Duration: 7 weeks (subject to weather and site conditions)
Road Closure: Big Bay Sideroad between Grey Road 1 and Cape Road
Detour Route: Via Coles Sideroad

What to Expect

During construction, Big Bay Sideroad will be closed to through traffic. Local access will be maintained for residents and emergency services. Detour signage will be in place.

Scope of Work

The project includes:

Removal of the existing culvert and asphalt
Creek diversion setup
Installation of a new SPCSP arch culvert
Construction of a new concrete headwall and block retaining wall
Road base restoration and new asphalt
New steel beam guiderail installation
Site cleanup and final inspection

Why This Project Is Important

This culvert, originally installed around 1970, has deteriorated beyond safe use. The 2024 inspection found major perforations, structural buckling, and settlement issues. Immediate replacement was recommended to avoid collapse and maintain public safety.

The new culvert is designed to meet modern standards and accommodate higher water flows caused by climate change, helping reduce flood risks.

Contact Us

If you have questions or concerns about this project, please contact:

Kevin Verkindt
Manager of Engineering and Infrastructure
📞 519-376-2729 ext. 205
📧 kverkindt@georgianbluffs.ca

Jesse Borges, P. Eng.
Consultant Project Manager, Pearson Engineering
📞 226-256-7957 ext. 241
📧 jborges@pearsoneng.com

Resources

Construction Update - October 2025

Progress Update:

R.F. King has completed the assembly and installation of the culvert and is currently working on backfilling, headwall construction, and retaining wall installations. Asphalt paving and guiderail installations are anticipated to take place during the first week of November, pending progress and weather conditions.