A bridge that crosses the Mississagi River south of Highway 17 just east of Iron Bridge is being reopened with a new load restriction in effect, the Municipality of Huron Shores says.
The reopening of the Dean Lake Bridge follows a structural inspection and analysis, the municipality said.
"The Municipality of Huron Shores is pleased to announce that the Dean Lake Bridge has reopened today, March 13, with a six-metric-tonne load limit, following a recent structural inspection and analysis completed by Kresin Engineering," Huron Shores said in a news release.
The engineering report confirmed that the bridge can safely accommodate vehicles up to 6 metric tonnes under controlled conditions.
At its regular meeting on March 12, council passed a resolution to implement the recommended weight limit and adopted a bylaw to formally enforce the restriction.
The bylaw is now in effect, with signs installed at both ends of the bridge in compliance with the Highway Traffic Act. The signs read, "Maximum 6 tonnes: passenger vehicles only".
Residents and drivers were encouraged to review a vehicle weight guideline chart to ensure compliance with the weight limit before crossing.
"Reopening the Dean Lake Bridge is an important step in restoring access for local residents while continuing to prioritize safety and long-term planning. We appreciate the community’s patience as we work through the next phases of planning and rehabilitation," the municipal council said.
The bridge was closed in January following Kresin Engineering's initial assessment of the structure based on a review of load evaluation reports, biennial inspection reports, and steel and concrete testing results.
Travellers were able to use an alternative route from Highway 17 to Eley Road, following detour signs, with the detour approximately 17 km to any trip east from Dean Lake Road.
There are about 130 permanent residents in the Dean Lake area.
To support future infrastructure decisions, council also approved the following actions:
- Allocating funds in the 2025 Budget for an underwater inspection of the bridge foundations to inform rehabilitation plans
- Directing staff to identify and report on funding opportunities for phased repairs, full rehabilitation, or possible bridge replacement
- Investigating the feasibility and long-term costs of maintaining or upgrading the existing detour route, should it continue to serve as an alternative access point.
Staff will bring a follow-up report to council with findings and recommendations regarding funding opportunities and detour route viability.
The full engineering report is available on the municipality’s Stay Informed page.