In Canada, it is said there are two seasons: winter and construction. With winter well behind us, summer construction is now underway! As we move into warmer months, Northumberland County is advancing several key infrastructure projects that will lay the foundation for a more connected, safe, and vibrant future for our community.
From bridge replacements and road rehabilitation to the expansion of affordable housing and improvements to intersections, construction activity this summer is a visible sign of the County’s commitment to building a stronger, more resilient community.
“Each of these projects reflects our ongoing efforts to modernize and maintain critical infrastructure, support housing needs, and improve safety for all road users,” says Director of Public Works Denise Marshall. “We’re building with intention—creating the conditions for sustainable growth and enhanced quality of life across Northumberland.”
Major Projects Underway:
Elgin Park Redevelopment (Cobourg): Phase two of the Elgin Park affordable housing development has been approved for occupancy, providing another 20 units of subsidized and market rental housing to support the broader goal of adding 900 new affordable housing units to the community between 2019 and 2029.
Trent River Crossing (Campbellford): This once-in-a-generation infrastructure project will deliver a vital second crossing over the Trent River. Now approaching 100% design completion, the project is expected to unlock economic growth and improve connectivity for Northumberland. Property acquisition and utility relocation are underway, with road and bridge construction anticipated to begin in 2026, pending budget confirmation and permitting
County Road 64 – Prince Edward Street (Brighton): Entering its second year, this multi-year reconstruction—delivered in partnership with the Municipality of Brighton—will strengthen core infrastructure, enhance accessibility, and support community growth. Construction is expected to be completed in late 2026.
Welcome Intersection (Port Hope): Construction begins this July on improvements to the intersection of County Road 2, County Road 10, and County Road 74. This project will improve safety at a complex intersection that studies have shown may contribute to driver confusion.
Burnley Bridge Replacement (Cramahe Township): Originally built in 1950, the Burnley Bridge on County Road 29 is being replaced to meet modern safety and transportation standards. This essential project will maintain a vital north-south link for local residents.
Other Key Initiatives:
Culvert Rehabilitation (South of Warkworth): Structural improvements will be made to a key culvert to extend its service life.
Baltimore Retaining Wall (alongside County Road 45): Repairs are scheduled for completion this summer as work concludes on shoring up the rock gabion creek wall.
Ongoing Bridge Maintenance in Trent Hills: Preventive maintenance on the Campbellford Bridge and Wilson Island Bridge to ensure long-term durability and performance.
Preventive Road Maintenance:
Preventive road maintenance is essential for extending the life of our infrastructure, reducing long-term repair costs, and keeping roads safe and reliable for all users. A lot of work is planned throughout the County as we continue efforts to maintain the over 500 kms of roads in our care.
· Micro-surfacing: 10 km across County Roads 9, 22, and 74 in Hamilton and Alnwick/Haldimand.
· Crack Sealing: 15 km in Hamilton, Alnwick/Haldimand, and Brighton.
· Surface Treatment: 20 km of various County roads, plus support for over 100 km of municipal road surface treatments.
“These investments are essential for supporting growth with intention,” adds Marshall. “Whether it’s improving housing access, maintaining the integrity of our road network, or replacing aging infrastructure, the County is working to build a safer, stronger, and more connected community.”
Residents are encouraged to learn more about planned construction and roadwork by visiting Northumberland.ca/roads. An interactive map is also available to explore live updates and locations of ongoing and upcoming work.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
