The improved Pickerel River bridge was officially opened Friday.
The bridge is located north of the community of Britt adjacent to Highway 69 near the French River Provincial Park and is part of the popular Ride Around Nipissing (RAN) Tour.
“The Pickerel River bridge is a critical piece of infrastructure for Ontario snowmobilers,” said Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs. C.E.O. Ryan Eickmeier. “As the only current north/south trail west of Lake Nipissing, this ensures connectivity to and from northern Ontario for years to come.”
Earlier this year, the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation announced up to 50 per cent support towards the $122,500 project.
“After a one-year closure, we are pleased to re-open the rehabilitated Pickerel River Bridge for the 2023 snowmobile season” stated John Miller, Near North Trail Association president. “Significant repair was completed including the replacement of damaged wooden support beams and cribbing, reparation of structural steel, replacement of handrails, improvements to water drainage and decking, as well as painting to prevent rust.
A reroute had been in place while the bridge was assessed and restored.
It is estimated that snowmobiling in Ontario generates an economic impact of up to $3.3 billion every year.
