Community Update: Rehabilitation of Newboro Lock 36

March 18, 2019 - Work has progressed well over the winter of 2018/19 toward the rehabilitation of Newboro Lock 36, in the Township of Rideau Lakes. This work is part of over $100 M of investments to rehabilitate the dams, bridges, locks, and canals that make up the Rideau Canal. The rehabilitation work at Newboro Lock, including masonry, gate painting, and the upgrade of hydraulic, electrical and control systems, is being completed in phases to allow for summer boat traffic and the economic benefit that this provides communities along the canal.

The first phase of rehabilitation began this winter with the rehabilitation of masonry on the south lock wall. The replacement and repair of masonry components has taken a conservation approach, only replacing deteriorated stone, and matching the original material, form and detailing as much as possible; all while still achieving a strength of repair that is expected to last up to 50 years.

Inside the construction weather enclosure, Newboro Lock 36.

What’s Behind the Wall?

Deterioration of sandstone mortar, and tree roots impacting both the clay puddle and the back of the masonry wall, has required a replacement of most of the stones of the south lock wall. The new rehabilitated wall will use materials similar to those used in the original construction nearly 200 years ago. Original stones that remain in good condition will be re-used and rubble in-fill will be constructed of stone materials from the project.

 

About Newboro Lock 36

Newboro Lock 36 is located between Upper Rideau Lake and Newboro Lake, in the community of Newboro. The construction of the lock began in 1827, and construction challenges ranged from excavation difficulties in the rocky ground, to malaria filled swamps. Sandstone for the lock was originally sourced locally from the Elgin Quarry. The lock at Newboro was completed in 1831 and has seen much change over the years.

How to stay informed:

For questions or concerns, or to receive email updates regarding this project, please contact us at RideauCanal-info@pc.gc.ca and include “Newboro” in the subject heading. Or, stay up-to-date on construction projects, boating, and other activities by following our social media channels: Twitter @rideaucanalNHS and Facebook/rideaucanalNHS. To find information about this or other infrastructure projects in your area, please visit www.parkscanada.gc.ca/rcInfrastructure.