Infrastructure program

Parks Canada is in the midst of a five-year, $3 billion investment to support infrastructure improvements within national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas across Canada.

This historic investment supports conservation while promoting visitor experience and making our infrastructure safer and more appealing to visitors. When visiting the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site, you may encounter one or more construction zones or reduced services while we complete this important work.

Please plan ahead before you travel to avoid inconvenience. Consult the following list of current infrastructure projects at the Sault Ste. Marie Canal to see if any road or facility work may impact your trip.

Current infrastructure projects at Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site

Powerhouse Water Infiltration Mitigation and Structural Stabilization
Minor visitor impact/temporary closure

The Powerhouse is a multi-phase project expected to take at least five years to complete. Phase 1 broke ground in March, 2019 and began with the restoration of the underground infrastructure which includes the Penstock and valve chambers just outside of the Powerhouse. The remaining phases will include restoration of the structure of the building. It will be restored to its original design to best interpret its historic function and significance. The surrounding areas including the wing wall stairs adjacent to the lock will also be restored. The number of phases required to complete the work will be based on approved funding as available. We are taking it step by step to move towards a full restoration. New banners explaining the function of the Powerhouse and providing a sneak peek at the proposed interior elements will be installed on the construction fencing this summer so visitors can better understand the past, present and future of this important heritage building.

Superintendent’s residence rehabilitation
Minor visitor impact/temporary closure

This project will conserve and rehabilitate the historic building to prevent further degradation. The complete rehabilitation will include upgrades to plumbing, electrical, and windows as well as roof replacement and reconstruction of the verandah and chimney. Phase one, which began in May 2018 and concluded in July 2019 addressed the windows, roof, chimney, and verandah. Phase two has not yet been scheduled. This elegant Victorian home, built in 1897, previously housed site Superintendents and their families from the late 1890s until the 1980s. Today, the house is mainly used for wedding ceremonies and photography, educational programming, and special events like our popular Summer Tea Series.

 



 



 

Contact us for more information!