Construction Notice: Burgess Dam Rehabilitation & Temporary Closure on River Street

Starting June 17, a portion of River Street in Bala will be closed for construction on the Burgess Dam. Work is expected to be completed by Fall/Winter 2026.

MUSKOKA LAKES, ON, June 16, 2026 – Starting Wednesday, June 17, a portion of River Street in Bala will be closed for construction and rehabilitation work on the Burgess Dam. 

The closure will extend from Mill Street to approximately 50 metres west (see map below). A signed detour route will be in place, and access to River Street will remain available via Maple Avenue.

The scope of this project will include raising the dam wall, installing a permanent spillway to redirect overflow during periods of high water, reconstructing the current retaining wall downstream of the dam and roadway improvements in the surrounding area to ensure structural support. 

Construction is anticipated to be completed by Fall/Winter 2026.

Please drive with caution and follow all posted signage in the area.

Location (highlighted blue):

Please be advised that the Burgess Dam is not designed or intended to function as a flood control structure. The current construction project is focused on maintaining and enhancing the structural integrity of the dam. Flood control infrastructure typically requires large-scale reservoir systems with the capacity to store excess water capabilities that this structure was not designed or constructed to provide.

Information & Resources

• 2026 Capital Road Projects: https://www.muskokalakes.ca/our-community/roads-and-sidewalks/
• Report a Public Works Concern: muskokalakes.ca/township-hall/report-a-concern/

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For more information, please contact:
Tim Sopkowe
Manager of Public Works
705-765-3156 x251
tsopkowe@muskokalakes.ca

For general, media or accessibility inquires, please contact:
Mia Palantzas
Communications Advisor
(705) 765-3156 x360
communications@muskokalakes.ca

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