Project Overview

A Class Environmental Assessment (EA) Study (the Study) to manage existing road infrastructure in the urban expansion area in the north Hespeler area of the City of Cambridge, and to define a bridge management plan for the historic Black Bridge Road structure over the Speed River, was undertaken by the City of Cambridge from September 2011 to November 2016. The proposed improvements are to support the current and future vehicular traffic demand and included consideration of rehabilitation or replacement of the existing Black Bridge Road bridge structure. An Environmental Study Report (ESR) was completed as part of the Class EA.

The Study documented the transportation need and the recommended plan to address current and future operational needs considering all modes of travel. These improvements will preserve the Black Bridge Road structure, provide a new crossing of the Speed River for vehicular traffic and will accommodate all users (pedestrians, bikes, and vehicles). The roadway improvements will address the forecasted local and regional vehicular traffic demand.

The Study examined alternatives for the alignment of Black Bridge Road, taking into account the existing Black Bridge Road bridge structure and a new Speed River crossing, and the alignment of Townline Road. Alternatives were also assessed for the cross section and vertical alignment of the road, and the intersection of Black Bridge Road and Townline Road. The study ultimately recommended the reuse of the existing heritage bridge as part of a multi-use Trail (MUT) crossing the Speed River and the construction of a new bridge structure for vehicular traffic crossing the Speed River.

After the completion of the Class EA Study a preliminary design was completed. The preliminary design determined key elements for the design and required studies and reports were completed. A Preliminary Design Report (PDR) was prepared that contains all the studies, reports and drawings that were completed; the PDR will be used as the basis for the detailed design. A Consultant has now been retained to complete the detailed design and the design work is underway.

Study Area

 Study Area

Progress to Date

  • Four public information centres were held during the Class EA.
  • Stakeholder Advisory Committee and Technical Advisory Committee meetings took place throughout the Class EA.
  • Staff delivered Report 18-103(CD) to Council June 26, 2018 recommending a preferred alternative to rebuild the dam.
  • Completed the Project File in July 2018.
  • Project File was posted for a 60-day public review period.
  • Five (5) Part II Order Requests were received by MECP.
  • The Minister of MECP denied the five Part II Order Requests (links to the Minister's letter and the decision table are below) meaning the implementation of the recommended alternative could proceed.
  • A preliminary design has been completed and a Preliminary Design Report (PDR) was prepared that contains all the studies, reports and drawings from the preliminary design phase.
  • A consultant has been retained to complete the detailed design.

Upcoming Work

The detailed design project has been initiated. The collection and review of background information is underway. Field work and studies are being done this spring and the 60% design will be completed. A Public Information Centre (PIC) is planned for later this year.

Documents and Reports

Contact Information

Mr. Scott MacDonald, P. Eng
Project Engineer
City of Cambridge
Development & Infrastructure
50 Dickson Street
Cambridge, ON  N1R 5W8
(519) 623-1340 Ext 4679
macdonaldsct@cambridge.ca