Multiple Bridge and Culvert Projects Wrapping up in Simcoe

Simcoe County is working through multiple bridge and culvert improvements – all with significant investments from the CCBF. 

The County is in the final stages of multi-year projects on Wye River bridge, Willow Creek North Channel and Willow Creek South Channel culverts. 

Wye River Bridge was constructed in 1971 and has undergone prior rehabilitation, including concrete repairs and deck replacement. In 2023, staff discovered the waterproofing sealant was failing and are investing CCBF funding into replacing the waterproofing and rehabilitating the structure. 

Willow Creek North and South Channel culverts were built in 1925 and 1950.  The Willow Creek North culvert was widened in 2005 as part of a larger local road project on Highway 28. Almost 20 years later, the culvert had significant structural cracking and moisture penetration and was generally in poor condition. Similarly, the Willow Creek South culvert showed significant deterioration, like separation of the concrete layers, and breaking and chipping of the concrete.  

Both culverts are being replaced with a precast concrete open bottom culvert with a waterproof membrane, built on a deep friction pile foundation – a type of foundation that helps distribute the weight and load of the infrastructure more efficiently. 

All three of these projects will improve the overall durability and longevity of the infrastructure, and help to keep Simcoe County’s inventory of more than 200 bridges and culverts in good working order.