Community Update: Smiths Falls

November 23, 2017 - With support from Public Services and Procurement Canada, and following a competitive procurement process, the construction contract for the rehabilitation of a number of components at Lock 29A in Smiths Falls has now been awarded. We anticipate that onsite work will proceed the week of November 27.

This project includes the replacement of both sets of hydraulic gates at Combined Lock 29A, enhancements to both hydraulic and electrical systems to improve the reliability of operation, repairs to the downstream concrete wharf and upper basin walls, and improvements to guard rails and hand rails at the site.

Work will be undertaken in a phased approach and will begin this winter with concrete work in the upper basin. Centennial Park, and Victoria Park between Abel St. and Lavinia St. will be fenced to allow for construction staging and safety. Cofferdams will be installed in the water surrounding the areas of work to create a dry work space, and concrete will be demolished and re-poured within an enclosed and heated area.

Pedestrians and bicyclists who would normally use pathways within Centennial Park and Victoria Park are asked to obey detour signage. At Victoria Park, paths will be re-routed to the south side of Lombard St. Paths through Centennial Park will be re-routed via Confederation Drive, Strathcona St., and Park Ave.

This first phase of concrete work will be completed in time for the beginning of the Rideau Canal navigation season in 2018.

About Combined Lock 29A

The lock at this location in Smiths Falls was originally three locks in flight. The lock was combined into one lift adjacent to the original locks (pictured above) in 1972 – 73 to accommodate a new fixed bridge. With a higher elevation to overcome as one lock, the manual gates were mechanized. Combined Lock 29A is one of only three locks on the Rideau Canal with hydraulic gates.

For More Information:

If you have any questions about this project, or if you would like to receive email updates, please email us at: RideauCanal.info@pc.gc.ca and include “Combined Lock 29” in the subject heading.