Rehabilitation of the Peterborough Earth Dams and the Replacement of the Maria Street Swing Bridge

The Rehabilitation of the Peterborough Earth Dams and the Replacement of the Maria Street Swing Bridge Projects span the canal corridor between Locks 20 and the McFarlane Street Bridge on the eastern border of the City of Peterborough. These two projects have been combined to improve overall cost efficiency.

Peterborough Earth Dams rehabilitation

The Peterborough Earth Dams Rehabilitation will continue from Phase One, completed from 2015 through 2019, from the McFarlane Street Bridge through to the Nassau Guard Gate. The current project phase will rehabilitate the Dam embankments from Lock 20 to the McFarlane Street Bridge and stabilize the slopes, restore erosion protection, and extend their service life by 75+ years. This project also includes repairs to the Peterborough Lift Lock to address leaks.

Maria Street Swing Bridge replacement

The Maria Street Swing Bridge, built in 1965, is scheduled for replacement. Its replacement aims to preserve the heritage landscape character while ensuring safety and modern standards.

Scope of Work

• Stabilize and reshape sections of the canal earth dams (embankments) to address erosion, slope instability, and aging infrastructure.
• Replace erosion protection, including exposed wire mesh and gabion baskets, with safer, more durable materials.
• Enhance public safety by repairing uneven ground and restoring canal bank areas to help protect pathways and public access points.
• Replace the steel swing bridge structure with the same two-lane and single-sidewalk structure. The new bridge will look exactly like the current one; however, it will have an increased load rating, such that the load limitation posting will be removed.
• Repair concrete abutments.
• Replace mechanical and electrical operating systems.

Project schedule

Construction is expected to begin in early 2026 for the Peterborough Earth Dam Rehabilitation. It will be phased to align with the navigation season, which runs from the Victoria Day weekend through to the Thanksgiving Day weekend. The Maria Street Bridge will need to be closed temporarily during the installation of the new structure.

Latest news

March 11, 2026 - Public information sessions

February 19, 2026 - Peterborough Earth Dams Rehabilitation and the Maria Street Swing Bridge Replacement

Questions and answers - Maria Street Bridge Replacement

• Why is the Maria Street Swing Bridge being replaced?

  The bridge, built in 1965, has reached the end of its service life and is scheduled for replacement. Structural corrosion, aging mechanical systems, and safety deficiencies mean that the bridge must be replaced to continue supporting traffic and navigation needs. Replacement ensures public safety and long-term reliability while restoring the structure’s full load carrying capacity, which was reduced to its current posted limited load rating several years ago. This project reflects Parks Canada’s commitment to protecting and maintaining the Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site and preserving its heritage character for current and future generations.
• Why not just repair the existing bridge?

  While interim repairs have been made to maintain traffic, key components are too deteriorated for long-term rehabilitation. A full replacement is the most cost-effective and safe solution and will ensure a service life of 75 years or more. Further replacement of the bridge with modern grade steel will allow the structure to support bridge code-compliant vehicle loads.
• Will the new bridge meet modern safety codes?

  Yes. The new bridge will meet the requirements of the Canadian Highway Bridge Design Code for structural loading. Some heritage-based design choices, such as railing treatments, will differ slightly from modern standards but have been reviewed by engineers and deemed safe.
• What will the new bridge look like?

  The new structure will be a 'sympathetic replacement.' This means it will closely resemble the existing bridge to preserve the heritage character of the waterway, while being built to modern highway load standards.
• Why was a sympathetic replacement chosen instead of a more modern bridge design?

  A full redesign with new foundations would require relocating the bridge or modifying nearby intersections, significantly increasing the scope, cost, and complexity. The sympathetic replacement minimizes risk by reusing the substructure while still delivering a fully highway-rated bridge. This approach also preserves the heritage character of the waterway landscape while ensuring a safe and reliable crossing for the community.
• How will this project affect road traffic, and how is Parks Canada coordinating with the City of Peterborough?

  The Maria Street Bridge will require short-term closures during inspections and a longer-term closure during the installation of the new structure. These intermittent closures are planned between 2026 and 2028. Detours through city streets will be in place, and Parks Canada is working closely with the construction contractor and the City of Peterborough to minimize disruption. This includes coordinating emergency access routes, scheduling around other municipal projects, and securing the necessary road closure approvals. When closures are in effect, drivers will require extra travel time, as delays may occur along detour routes. Advance notice will be provided, and more details on closures, timing, and detours will be shared as they become available.
• Will boat traffic be affected?

  Construction will be scheduled to avoid impacts on the navigation season. In-water work will take place only during the winter months, so boating will not be affected during the summer.
• How will pedestrians and cyclists be impacted?

  During the bridge closure, pedestrians and cyclists will also need to use detour routes. Signage will clearly indicate alternate crossings.
• What environmental measures are being taken?

  The project will undergo an environmental review and require a detailed Environmental Management Plan. Measures will be implemented to manage sediment and other potential contaminants, thereby protecting the canal environment.
• Will there be opportunities for public to ask questions and receive project information?

  Yes. Parks Canada will host an information session and provide updates online. Residents will be able to ask questions by email, and receive information through a dedicated project webpage and email list.
• When will the project be completed?

  The Project schedule and timeline is still being refined at this time and will depend on many factors such as weather/temperature, material availability, etc. The public can expect the project to last approximately three to four years.
• Will winter skating on the canal be affected?

  Yes, construction in the canal corridor will require temporary restrictions to public access, including winter recreation areas, to ensure visitor safety. For this reason, skating in the project area will not be available during the construction phase of the Peterborough Earth Dams Rehabilitation project. Parks Canada and the City of Peterborough will continue to work together to determine whether skating can return once construction is complete and conditions are safe.

Questions and answers - Peterborough Earth Dams Rehabilitation and Peterborough Lift Lock Sealing

• Why is this project necessary?

  The canal dams and the Peterborough Lift Lock are aging assets that have exceeded their intended service life. Rehabilitation is required to ensure public safety, protect nationally significant heritage infrastructure, and maintain reliable navigation along the Trent-Severn Waterway. Through infrastructure investments, Parks Canada is protecting and conserving national historic sites while ensuring safe, high-quality and meaningful experiences for visitors now and into the future.

• What are the main issues with the canal dams?

  The canal banks are experiencing erosion and instability. Past protection measures, such as gabion baskets, are failing and creating safety hazards. Rehabilitation will stabilize the banks, improve safety, and extend the lifespan of the dams.

• Why is work required on the Peterborough Lift Lock?

  As a historic structure, the Lift Lock is experiencing water leakage into its interior spaces, putting sensitive mechanical and electrical systems at risk. Repairs will seal the leaks and ensure the continued safe operation of this iconic heritage structure.

• How will this project benefit the community?

  Repairs will make the canal banks safer for public use, reduce risks to nearby roads and infrastructure, and protect a nationally significant landmark. Work to the Lift Lock will ensure its continued safe operation and long-term conservation. This infrastructure work will support continued navigation, recreation, and tourism, helping residents and visitors connect with nature and history while contributing to the local economy.

• Will there be impacts on public access?

  Yes. Certain sections of the canal banks and pathways may be closed temporarily during construction for safety reasons. Advance notice will be provided, and safe detours will be clearly marked. More information on closures and impact to traffic will be shared soon.

• What about events like the “Under the Lock Fishing Derby”, will it be affected?

  The contractor is required to be finished working in the canal and have it returned to normal water levels prior to the Under the Lift Lock Fishing Derby.

• Will navigation through the Lift Lock be affected?

  Parks Canada will make every effort to minimize disruption to the navigational season, however some interruptions for boaters may be required during construction. Parks Canada will communicate any closures well in advance to allow boaters to plan their travel.

• How is Parks Canada addressing environmental concerns?

  An environmental assessment will be completed before construction begins. Contractors will also be required to prepare detailed environmental management plans to minimize impacts on the natural environment.

• How will Parks Canada keep the public informed?

  Updates will be shared through Parks Canada’s website, social media channels, signage on-site, and local media. Community information sessions may also be held before major project milestones.

• Who are the key partners involved in this project?

  Parks Canada will deliver the project with support from Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC), consulting engineers, and an experienced construction contractor. The City of Peterborough and First Nations communities will also be engaged.

• When will the project be completed?

  Due to the size and complexity of the project, the timeline depends on procurement schedules. Once construction begins, work is expected to take place over two to three navigation seasons. Parks Canada will provide regular updates as timelines are confirmed.

• What impacts can nearby residents expect during construction?

  There may be temporary noise, dust, and construction traffic in the project area. Some public access routes along the canal may also be closed for safety. Parks Canada will work closely with the City of Peterborough and contractors to minimize disruption, and the public will be informed in advance of any changes.

• How will Parks Canada ensure the heritage value of the Lift Lock and canal dams is maintained during repairs?

  Parks Canada is committed to protecting the cultural heritage of the Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site. All work on the Peterborough Lift Lock and canal dams will follow heritage conservation standards and guidelines. Repairs are designed to stabilize and extend the life of these assets while preserving their historic character. Investments in the preservation and restoration of national historic sites help ensure these important places remain safe, authentic, and accessible for future generations.

Contact

Investments in the preservation and restoration of national historic sites will protect these important heritage places for future generations.

For questions or concerns or to receive email updates regarding this project, please contact us at trentsevern@pc.gc.ca and include “Peterborough Canal Projects” in the subject heading.