Iconic 110-year-old bridge to Ontario island is about to be replaced

A historic bridge that has connected mainland Ontario to one of the province's most stunning island landscapes for more than a century is about to get a serious makeover.

Mantoulin Island is a majestic natural wonder replete with opportunities for hiking, paddling, swimming, nature-watching, learning and exploring its trails, beaches, forests, waterfalls and communities.

Ranking as the largest freshwater island on the globe with more than 100 internal lakes of its own, the land mass is also home to a wealth of First Nations heritage, with powwows and cultural festivals regularly held on its nearly 2,800 square kilometres.

And, those who live on or visit Mantoulin are in for a treat, as the provincial government just announced a massive overhaul of the legendary swing bridge that serves as the only roadway in and out.

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The movable crossing, while iconic, has seen better days and is slated for full replacement with a larger, updated bridge. Doug Ford and his government revealed this week that they've moved ahead with the next steps of the project, which was initially confirmed back in 2023.

"Our government is building a new, modern two-lane bridge that will support economic growth in the north and secure Manitoulin Island's connection to the rest of Ontario," Ford wrote Thursday while sharing the progress on X.

The detailed design phase of the shiny, more reliable structure — which will accommodate more vehicle traffic, as well as boasting new cycle paths and pedestrian walkways — is now underway, led by Stantec Consulting Ltd., which was just awarded the contract for the initiative.

As locals look forward to the much-needed upgrade, the news also serves to remind us living down in the city that a road trip to the gem of Mantoulin Island is well worth it, and something we should all add to our bucket lists, especially once the remodel is complete.