Atherley Narrows Bridge Project

Notice of Study Completion – Atherley Narrows Pedestrian Bridge

The City of Orillia, in partnership with the Township of Ramara and the Chippewas of Rama First Nation, and through their consultant AECOM, has completed a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) study to assess the opportunity to provide a recreational trail connection across the Atherley Narrows, enhance existing significant cultural heritage features and establish a place of ceremony for Aboriginal people.  The EA study was carried out in accordance with the planning and design process for Schedule ‘C’ projects as outlined in the Municipal Class EA document (October 2000, as amended in 2007 and 2011), approved under the Environmental Assessment Act.

The Environmental Study Report (ESR) has been prepared to document the planning and decision making process that was followed. By this Notice, the ESR is being placed on the public record for a 30-day review period in accordance with the requirements of the Municipal Class EA. The ESR will be available for public review, beginning on Friday, November 13, 2015.

Based on the evaluation of the planning and design alternatives, and in consideration of public and agency input, the recommended plan includes the removal and relocation of the existing swing bridge span and development of a newly designed bridge that will serve recreational trail users, including pedestrians, cyclists and snowmobiles.  The enhanced design features of the new bridge include the resurfacing of the trails to the immediate east and west of the bridge site, as well as enhanced landscaping. For more information, the ESR is available for review.