Emery Bridge

Emery Bridge, located on Church Sideroad West in the former Township of Sarawak, is a single-lane, cast-in-place concrete bridge built in the 1950s. It spans 11.3 metres across Indian Creek and has a posted load limit of 9 tonnes. The bridge was closed in early 2023 due to significant structural defects, including deck and abutment failure. No short-term repair option is available, so a full bridge replacement is necessary.

Why Is This Project Important?

The closure of Emery Bridge has caused inconvenience for local residents, particularly farmers. The detour forces large agricultural equipment onto Grey Road 1, which is less ideal than the previous access route. Replacing the bridge will restore direct access, improve safety, and support local agricultural operations.

Scope

The Township will replace Emery Bridge with a new single-lane bridge. This approach offers the best balance of safety, cost, and community needs. The new bridge will:

• Eliminate the load posting, allowing larger vehicles to cross safely.
• Improve road safety and maintain direct access to farmland.
• Increase resilience to climate change.

Other Considered Options

1. Permanent Closure: This option was dismissed due to strong community opposition.
2. Two-Lane Bridge Replacement: While this option would improve capacity and future development potential, it presents technical and environmental challenges and is less favoured due to higher costs and complexity.

Budget

• Design and Engineering: $396,000 (2024 Budget Allocation)
• Total Project Cost: $1,804,000
• Funding Sources: Township Budget and Road Bridges Reserve

Timeline

The construction timeline may be subject to change based on permitting and environmental assessment requirements, and weather considerations.

Resources

Staff Reports:

• Emery’s Bridge Design Considerations Report (April 17, 2024)​
• Emery Bridge Replacement Report (September 6, 2023)
• Award Of Single Source Contract Engineering Services For Emery's Bridge Replacement​

Environmental Assessment:
The project is currently expected to be considered a "Schedule A+" project under Ontario's Environmental Assessment Act, meaning minimal environmental impacts are anticipated. If higher impacts are identified during planning, the Township will adjust accordingly.