The areas around two of Bracebridge's waterfalls have been turned into construction zones as a massive hydro project is now underway.
Bracebridge Generation Ltd. (BGL) is currently in the midst of $21-million worth of upgrades to its Bracebridge powerhouses. To that end blasting has begun at Bracebridge Bay, and the Wilson's Falls powerhouse has been completely removed.
The plans for Wilson's Falls include the construction of a new powerhouse with a "Muskoka" design and a viewing platform.
BGL is also in the process of rebuilding a small dam that allows water to flow to the powerhouse. That dam also serves as a bridge to connect Wilson's Falls Road to the system of trails in and around Wilson's Falls.
BGL had asked that the town sell it the land for $1. BGL would then, in turn, lease the land back to the town to facilitate access to the trails. However, that proposal hit a snag when it came before the town's general committee last Wednesday.
Several councillors said the property must remain in town hands to ensure public access to the trails.
The committee ultimately decided to send the matter back to town staff for further study, but Litschko said the decision shouldn't have a dramatic effect on BGL's plans.
The bridge connecting Wilson's Falls Road to the trail system will be closed until the spring, said Litschko.
While the equipment has been removed from the existing powerhouse, Litschko said the building is being largely preserved for heritage value.
Litschko said he expects the modifications to the dam to be complete by this spring, at which time the walkway over the dam will be reopened.
Despite the myriad of construction work, including the creation of a small roadway in the bay, Litschko gave assurances that both projects are under close scrutiny.
Both Wilson's Falls and Bracebridge Falls currently utilize 10,000 litres per second of water when operating at full capacity. After the upgrades, the plants will utilize 27,000 litres per second, almost three times the current amount. There has been concern over possible disruptions to the flow of water over the falls. However, Litschko has maintained that the scenic beauty of both locations is a priority and plans are in place to ensure the falls continue to flow at regular capacity.
The Bracebridge Falls plant currently generates 600 kilowatts of electricity. After construction, its capacity is expected to increase to 2,600 kilowatts.
The Wilson's Falls plant also currently generates 600 kilowatts of electricity. Its capacity is expected to increase to 2,900 kilowatts.
The project is slated for completion in the first quarter of 2012, and until that time the river will flow solely over the falls, he said.
Litschko pointed out that he expects the project will bring an investment of roughly $5 million in local contractors and materials.
Although Litschko said the project is still in the early stages, everything is currently running on schedule.
