Canadian Design and Construction Report staff writer
The federal government has announced $74 million over three years for critical infrastructure improvements along the Trent-Severn Waterway National historic site – Canada’s largest and one of the most visited national historic sites.
Funding is included in $557 million announced in late 2022 so Parks Canada can conserve the heritage value of the area. Additionally, infrastructure projects along the Trent-Severn Waterway will help mitigate flood risks and strengthen features of the waterway. Once these infrastructure projects are complete, the lifespan and function of these structures will have been extended for decades, continuing to connect and protect local communities. The work supported through this investment includes:
- repairs to the Kirkfield Lift Lock
- recapitalization of the walls, tunnels and valves at Lock 42 – Couchiching
- recapitalization of the Little Chute Dam “G” near Port Severn
- replacement of the Whites Portage Dam on Six Mile Lake;
- recapitalization of the valve tunnels for Healey Falls Locks 16 and 17
- creation of an access road from White’s Falls Road to the Pretty Channel Dam.
Parks Canada has a mandate to conserve and present national heritage places including transportation, water management, public safety, and services to residents and businesses.
These upgrades will improve safety, quality and reliability for visitors, incorporate green technologies and climate resilience, while connecting Canadians with nature and history.
The Trent-Severn Waterway spans over 400 kilometres with 44 locks, a marine railway and more than 160 water control structures.
Parks Canada manages water levels on the Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site to achieve a variety of objectives, including safe navigation, mitigation of flooding, and the protection of the environment.
