The Municipality of Huron Shores is pleased to announce that the Dean Lake Bridge has reopened today, March 13, 2025, with a 6-metric-tonne load limit, following a recent structural inspection and analysis completed by Kresin Engineering.

The engineering report, titled “2025-03-06 DL Bridge Letter – Update 3,“ confirmed that the bridge can safely accommodate vehicles up to this weight under controlled conditions. 

At its regular meeting on March 12, 2025, Council passed a resolution to implement the recommended 6-tonne weight limit and adopted By-law #25-12 to formally enforce the restriction. The by-law is now in effect, with signage installed at both ends of the bridge in compliance with the Highway Traffic Act.

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.

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
🚗 Residents and drivers are encouraged to review the vehicle weight guideline to ensure compliance with the weight limit before crossing.

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