Canal Lake Concrete Arch Bridge
Canal Lake Concrete Arch Bridge, Concrete arch bridge in Kawartha Lakes, Canada
Description
Canal Lake Concrete Arch Bridge is a reinforced concrete structure spanning 62 meters across the Trent-Severn Waterway with a single arch and spandrel walls patterned to resemble stone masonry. The design combines embedded steel with concrete to create a stable crossing for vehicles.
History
Built in 1905, it was Canada's first reinforced concrete arch bridge, using the Melan system with curved steel girders embedded in concrete. This construction method set new standards for bridge building across North America.
Culture
The bridge represents a turning point in Canadian civil engineering, demonstrating how engineers embraced new materials and techniques to create functional, lasting structures. Its design influenced how later bridges were built across the country.
Practical
The bridge is open to vehicle traffic and provides about 29 feet (9 meters) of clearance for boats and watercraft on the waterway below. A full renovation in 2018 ensures the structure remains in good working condition for both functions.
Did you know?
The bridge uses a modified Melan system where carefully placed steel reinforcements reduced concrete use while maintaining full strength. This innovative approach demonstrated how engineers could be economical with materials without compromising safety or lifespan.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Kawartha Lakes).
Burl's Creek Event Grounds
38.8 km
Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands Provincial Park
31.9 km
Sibbald Point Provincial Park
33.8 km
Balsam Lake Provincial Park
15.9 km
Mnjikaning Fish Weirs
26.1 km
Leaskdale Manse
40.6 km
Mara Provincial Park
25.1 km
The Briars
36.4 km
St. Paul's Presbyterian Church
40.7 km
Orillia Opera House
30.2 km
Atherley Narrows Swing Bridge
26.2 km
Tudhope Building
30.1 km
Icelandic Settlement Disaster Memorial
39.9 km
Old Stone Church
15.7 km
Bass Lake Provincial Park
34.8 km
Old Jail House
22.6 km
Victoria County Court House
32.7 km
Mossington Bridge
35.5 km
Kawartha Lakes Museum & Archives
32.7 km
Church of the Guardian Angels
30.4 km
Kinmount Rail Station
39.9 km
Cambridge Street United Church
32.9 km
Downtown Lindsay Heritage Conservation District
33.3 km
Austin Sawmill
39.8 km
Stephen Leacock Museum / Old Brewery Bay
28.1 km
Georgina Pioneer Village
42.6 km
Kean's Block
30.1 km
Fenelon Falls Lock
24.6 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes