Bala Falls Road Bridge Environmental Assessment Study

The Bala Falls Road Bridge crosses the south channel of the outlet from Lake Muskoka into the Moon River in Bala. The location of the bridge is shown on the map below. The bridge is in fair to poor condition with inadequate roadside safety measures, a posted load capacity restriction, concrete deterioration and erosion at the base of the piers. The Township of Muskoka Lakes is commencing an environmental assessment under the Environmental Assessment Act to identify the preferred method of improvement for the bridge.

Study Process

This project is a Schedule ‘B’ project as outlined in the Municipal Engineers Association Municipal Class Environmental Assessment document. The Class EA Study will consider and address the impacts associated with the proposed improvements.

Alternative solutions have been identified as follows:

• Do Nothing
• Remove Bridge
• Rehabilitate Existing Bridge
• Replace Bridge

Following completion of the public engagement and in consideration of concerns that may be raised through agency reviews and public comment, the alternative solutions will be further evaluated and a preferred solution will be recommended for Township review and council endorsement. Following this, the project file report will be available for public review and comment.

Notice of Study Completion - Project File

The Township of Muskoka Lakes completed an environmental assessment under the Environmental Assessment Act to identify the preferred method of improvement for the Bala Falls Road Bridge. 

View the Final Project File

• The preferred alternative is Replacement.
• The preferred design concept is Concept 2 - Five Span Base Option.