(Peterborough, Canada) – Parks Canada plans to close the Maria Street Swing Bridge from December 7, 2026, until December 2027 for replacement, while Peterborough’s November 1 transit changes keep Route 7A on its Lift Lock Tunnel detour.

The approximately year-long bridge closure was announced in an October 30 Parks Canada release republished by the city. It is a scheduled December closure, separate from the bus timetable changes taking effect Sunday.

Road detours during replacement

Maria Street will be closed to through traffic at the bridge during construction. Additional local restrictions are planned, and trucks over four tonnes must use the designated alternate truck route.

The notice says the bridge closure will not affect Trent–Severn Waterway navigation. The Trans Canada Trail crossing at Lock 20 will remain open and maintained through winter, including access toward Ashburnham Drive.

Parks Canada says the 1965 bridge has reached the end of its service life. Its replacement is intended to retain the crossing’s heritage appearance while restoring greater load-carrying capacity.

Bus changes begin November 1

Route 7A will continue using the Lift Lock Tunnel rather than returning to the Maria Street Bridge route because of upcoming construction, according to the city’s October 28 transit notice.

Route 2 Chemong has minor timetable adjustments. Route 14 O’Tech Connect’s first trip will leave at 5:55 a.m. as a shorter run to Technology Drive. Regular weekday departures begin at 6:35 a.m., with the final departure at 10:35 p.m.

Riders should consult the city’s updated schedules or call transit customer service at 705-745-0525 before travelling.

Source: Bridge closure notice, October30; Transit service changes, October28; Parks Canada project background.

Lead image: The Northern Current editorial illustration.