Town of Smiths Falls Announces Official Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the New Timber Bridge

The Town of Smiths Falls is pleased to announce the official opening and ribbon cutting ceremony for the new pedestrian and cyclist bridge, taking place on Friday, May 22, 2026, at 11:00 am. Residents and members of the community are invited to attend and be among the first to experience the fully completed bridge.

The new timber bridge (yet to be named) is a striking new landmark within downtown Smiths Falls, enhancing pedestrian connectivity and creating a welcoming new space for residents and visitors to enjoy. Constructed using mass timber elements and modern methods of construction, the project reflects the Town’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure made with renewable materials, innovation, and placemaking.

This project was made possible in part through funding from Natural Resources Canada under the Green Construction Through Wood (GCWood) program. Created in 2017, the GCWood program encourages the use of modern methods of construction using advanced wood-based building products, systems, and technologies, including volumetric modular and prefabricated structural components.

“The new Pedestrian Bridge will connect Smiths Falls, creating a more accessible community for local residents, built with sustainable, Canadian materials. Through the Buy Canadian Policy and the GCWood program, our government is investing in new community infrastructure that prioritizes Canadian materials, creates jobs, and increases accessibility across the country”, said Member of Parliament, Bruce Fanjoy.

“This project has been an exciting journey from start to finish, and we are proud to officially unveil the completed Timber Bridge to the community” said Mayor Shawn Pankow. “Council wanted to provide our citizens and visitors with a unique opportunity to enjoy the historic Rideau Canal, and StruftureCraft delivered. The bridge is more than just a pedestrian crossing - it is a symbol of innovation and community pride that residents and visitors will enjoy for years to come.”

The Town would like to recognize the designer and builder, StructureCraft; Natural Resources Canada; project partners; contractors; and staff whose collaboration and support helped bring this unique project to life.

Residents are encouraged to attend the ribbon cutting ceremony and celebrate the completion of this important community project.

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Media Contact
Joanne Plontz
Communications and Marketing Coordinator
77 Beckwith Street N, Box 695
Smiths Falls, ON K7A 2B8
613-283-4124 ext. 1122
Communications@smithsfalls.ca