Matthew Bulmer says more people might support a Stroy’s bridge project if township officials started to think of it as investing in a long-term recreational asset rather than maintaining a liability.
Bulmer was responding to a delegation on June 16 from Ray Hutton, who offered an alternative option for the bridge, which spans the Speed River on a closed portion of Sideroad 10 about one kilometre north of Laird Road West.
In April, Hans Groh, a township consultant with Gamsby and Mannerow, provided three possible options for the bridge:
– removal of structure and a concrete culvert for $145,000;
– rehabilitation for pedestrian use and culvert replacement for $199,000; and
– removal and replacement with new pedestrian access and new culvert for $550,000.
Hutton told council the rehabilitation cost seems like “an awful lot of money” to spend on something that may not be a long-term fix.
Despite the structure’s history, he worries that several years after fixing the existing bridge, the township would have to close it or remove another part of it due to rust and the deteriorating condition.
Instead, Hutton suggested, the township should consider a self-supporting, walking bridge about 100 feet in length.
By doing so the township could save tens of thousands of dollars and use that difference to remove the old structure.
“I’m hoping that will give us something else to look at,” Hutton said.
Mayor Brad Whitcombe thanked Hutton for his efforts, which included some preliminary budget figures, and said the report has already been forwarded by staff to Gamsby and Mannerow.
Councillor Dick Visser said Hutton’s proposal should be considered by council.
“I always thought there was a cheaper solution,” Visser said.
Bulmer agreed with Visser said said it’s time the township views the bridge as a recreational asset and not a roads liability.
Councillor Don McKay asked how the community would feel about a Trillium grant to help with the cost, or if residents would be willing to fundraise for part of the project.
Hutton said there has been no real talk about funding.
Councillor Susan Fielding said the Guelph Hiking Trail Club has expressed interest in helping to raise funds if necessary, and she has contacted Wellington Halton Hills MP Michael Chong and MPP Ted Arnott to inquire about federal or provincial funding for the bridge project.
Visser concluded the conversation by saying he would like more information, specifically:
– a quote for the type of bridge Hutton suggested;
– whether the township has to remove the existing abutments or if they can be left where they are; and
– a price for the removal of the existing structure.
The century-old structure was closed to vehicular traffic in the early 1990s. It remained open to pedestrian traffic until further deterioration caused the township to close it entirely in 2008.
