Sean Derouin, Public Works Manager with Lanark County presented the proposed plan for the 5 Arches Bridge Rehabilitation project for 2025.
The Committee provided the following comments:
- Councillor Torrance inquired about winter maintenance procedures and materials used on similar heritage bridges in Ontario, and whether alternative materials to salt could be considered for winter maintenance, to allow the use of stone instead of the proposed concrete curb.
- Sean Derouin explained that using alternative materials for the plow truck would require a special route, and Public Works will investigate potential options.
- Councillor Torrance inquired about the historical stone pattern used prior to 1984 and whether it could be replicated in the rehabilitation.
- Sean Derouin will consult historical references to determine the feasibility of replicating the original stone pattern.
- Councillor Torrance asked about the color match of the proposed limestone in comparison with existing stone, emphasizing the need for the best match rather than simply what is readily available.
- Sean Derouin confirmed that the proposed source is a good color match.
- Janet Carlile inquired about access to/egress from the existing retail store Heady's (Dickson Store/Post Office) which is currently not accessible.
- Sean Derouin confirmed that the planned work for 2026 will improve access and will look at providing hydro to the building.
Julie Harris, Senior Architectural Historian with Matrix Heritage also presented on the Cultural Heritage of the 5 Arches Bridge, including the draft Statement of Cultural Heritage Value.
The Committee provided the following comments:
- Julie Harris requested that the Heritage Committee review the draft Statement of Cultural Heritage. A copy of the statement in Word format will be provided to the Committee.
- Councillor Torrance asked which elements are important features of the bridge for the cultural heritage, ie: the arched form of the bridge, harvesting of local stone
- Julie Harris explained that while heritage conservation principles prioritize minimal intervention, there is a balancing act between public safety and functional requirement and conservation. Over the past 125 years, the stone has proven to be really susceptible to damage from freeze-thaw cycles and to salt exposure. Therefore, there is a valid conservation argument to be made that the stone can be selectively replaced with concrete. Julie noted that some kinds of limestone perform well under pressure, while others do not.
- Julie Harris emphasized the importance of minimal intervention and replacing materials only when necessary, however, concrete cubs offer a practical solution that can be easily replaced.
- Julie Harris confirmed that the deadline for comments from the Heritage Committee is end of September.