A new structure is in the works for the Quebec side of the interprovincial crossing at Timiskaming.
After a lengthy review lasting eight years, the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC) has approved plans to replace the aging dam and bridge on the Quebec side of Timiskaming.
The federal agency announced on May 21 that its assessment determined that building a new structure will not negatively impact fish, their habitats, or birds.
This project aims to replace the existing interprovincial bridge and dam located 65 kilometres northeast of North Bay, connecting Ontario with Quebec between Thorne, Ont. and Timiskaming, Que.
Since June 2018, this proposed project has been undergoing a federal environmental assessment process.
The announcement mentioned that Public Services and Procurement will construct a new 75-metre-long structure featuring a two-lane road along with a sidewalk. This new infrastructure will also manage water levels in the river.
No specific date for construction was provided in the release. However, it is estimated that construction will take about 30 months. The old bridge and dam are set to be taken down after the new one is operational.
Back in September 2016, Ottawa granted Tetra Tech QI Inc. a $2.39-million contract for engineering design work related to replacing the Quebec dam.
A decision statement outlines legally binding conditions designed to protect the environment which must be followed by those overseeing the project throughout its duration.
IAAC noted that both scientific research and Indigenous knowledge played roles in this process. Kebaowek First Nation, Timiskaming First Nation, Wolf Lake First Nation, and Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation all contributed their insights regarding potential impacts from the project.
The original dam complex was constructed between 1909 and 1913 and consists of two separate dams.
The Quebec portion of this dam was rebuilt during the 1930s due to a foundation failure. The government has indicated it is nearing its end-of-life phase and requires replacement.
The Ontario side of both dam and bridge was completed for $32.9 million and opened to traffic back in 2016.
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