The Region of Waterloo has begun a multi-year project to rebuild the Scheifele Bridge on Northfield Drive in the Township of Woolwich. Regional Council recently approved a $19.4 million contract with Sierra Infrastructure Inc. for the work, which is expected to continue in phases until November 2029.
The current bridge, which has served the area since 1960, has deteriorated significantly despite past repairs in 1982 and 2011. According to regional officials, the structure now requires a full replacement to ensure safe transit over the Conestogo River. While construction is underway, the project is designed to keep two-way traffic moving on this vital route, which sits about 800 metres north of University Avenue.
The new bridge will feature design updates aimed at improving safety and accessibility for all road users. Plans include wider shoulders on both sides to accommodate cyclists and buggies, as well as a new sidewalk on the east side protected by a concrete barrier to separate pedestrians from vehicle traffic.
In addition to replacing the bridge, crews will reconstruct and realign the road to connect with the new structure. The project also includes the installation of retaining walls to protect the nearby wetlands. To prepare the site, tree removal took place between December 2025 and March 2026, and the regional government has committed to replanting all removed trees once construction concludes.
Residents travelling through the area can find more details on the project through the official Scheifele Bridge Superstructure Replacement page. Those with questions regarding the construction can also contact the project manager at the regional office.
