Cayuga Bridge - www.OntHighways.com

Cayuga Bridge - Highway 3

Recently, the MTO has begun examining options related to the replacement or rehabilitation of the 5-span truss bridge over the Grand River on Highway 3 near Cayuga. The Cayuga bridge is approximately 188.7m long and was completed by the Department of Public Highways of Ontario (predecessor to the MTO) in 1924. The bridge was rehabilitated in 1976 and has since fallen into a state of disrepair. This means that regular maintenance is now required to ensure the safe operation of the bridge. The Cayuga bridge serves as the western entrance to the village of Cayuga, and is notable in terms of spans and length within the Grand River watershed. According to the MTO there are only approximately 15 truss bridges left in our current highway network.

View of the southern facade of the Cayuga bridge showing the Grand River watershed. Photo Courtesy: Cameron Bevers.

Ideally, the existing structure could be maintained, and simply rehabilitated. Unfortunately, the existing bridge is in poor condition and has several design deficiencies that could not be remedied by even the most elaborate of rehabilitations. These deficiencies include a very narrow bridge deck, and the sharp approaches with very poor sightlines. In addition, the lifespan of a new bridge would also be significantly longer then that of the rehabilitated existing structure. If replaced, several designs are being considered, including the construction of a new, more modern 5-span truss bridge. Unfortunately, area residents have not shown a preference for what type of structure replaces the current bridge. Because no strong design preference has been identified, the current preferred type of replacement structure is a 5-span steel girder bridge that would utilize the existing piers. The new bridge proposals include several decorative elements, including decorative railings and light standards.

View of the eastern approach to the Cayuga bridge. Notice the narrow driving surface. Photo Courtesy: Cameron Bevers.

Due to the historical nature of the Cayuga truss bridge, the HHSO feels that the history of this vintage structure should be maintained. Ideally, this would be done by maintaining and repairing the existing structure, however, the drawbacks to doing this would be significant. As a compromise the HHSO believes that constructing a new 5-span truss bridge would carry on the tradition of the current bridge, while also allowing Highway 3 to be brought up to modern standards through the area. Sufficient public support for the construction of a new truss bridge could very well persuade the MTO to construct a new truss-bridge in Cayuga. With this goal in mind, the HHSO has decided to create a petition to send to the MTO of those who would prefer a new truss bridge constructed.

Below are the names of those who would like to see the MTO replace the Cayuga bridge with a new 5-span truss bridge. To add your name to this list, please email me at webmaster@onthighways.com

Scott Steeves
Cameron Bevers
Chris Beach
Josh Anderchek
Dan Garnell
Mark Mirrlees
Martin Keenan
Stephen Kapusta
Jody Thorton
Andrew Novak
David Macklin
Matthew Wiecha
Steve Zytveld
Kevin Jordan
Tyson K. Cragg
Doug Kerr
Jay LaRochelle
Craig White
Stephan Antonel
Joseph Gardiner
Tim O'Neill
Nathan Holth
Jim Jenkins
Thomas Baird
Thomas Gonder
Jordan Miller
Mike Witmer
Tim Willcox
Fred Herriot
Thomas Jewer
Ricky Cronmiller
Riel Hallmanchong
David Kanowakeron
Shawn Colley

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