WELLINGTON COUNTY – On May 17 the Ontario Public Works Association (OPWA) announced the County of Wellington won the 2021 Public Works Project of the Year Award in the “Management Innovation” category for the Badley Bridge replacement project.
This award recognizes the county’s significant efforts of working directly with the local community and approval agencies to review and preserve the heritage significance of Elora’s Badley Bridge throughout the structure’s replacement.
The county completed the Badley Bridge replacement project in 2021 in partnership with WSP Canada Ltd., Triton Engineering Services Limited, BT Engineering Inc., and Looby Construction (Ellis Don).
The project involved the removal of the existing bridge, construction of the new bridge, and improving the road approaches and landscaping.
The bridge features an open view of the Grand River, provides wider traffic lanes, sidewalks, an expanded observation deck, improved lighting, and a commemorative gateway sculpture designed by community volunteers and constructed using elements of the former Badley Bridge.
“The Badley Bridge has always been an iconic entrance into Elora. It was important to work with members of our local community to find unique and innovative ways to commemorate that historical significance,” said Warden Kelly Linton.
“It is inspiring to see the community-designed sculpture and storyboard gateway features. These features not only commemorate the former Badley Bridge, but they highlight the community’s commitment to preserving Elora’s history.”
“It is a great honour to receive the Public Works Project of the Year Award, and to recognize the creative elements of public works projects happening in our communities,” commented the county’s roads committee chair Andy Lennox.
“The county took great care in improving the efficiency and safety of this busy transportation route, and worked hard to preserve the history of the Badley Bridge in the Centre Wellington community.”
More information about the Badley Bridge replacement project can be found at www.wellington.ca/badley.
