How a Trans Canada Trail Grant Helped Save a Historic Bridge in Ontario
Barbara MacPherson remembers getting a call about a fire on Doube’s Trestle Bridge, part of her local section of the Trans Canada Trail. Initially, the Kawartha Trans Canada Trail Association (KTCTA) board member was in disbelief.
Sadly, driving to the bridge minutes later confirmed her worst fears. Heavy smoke rose above the crossing over Buttermilk Creek, and several fire trucks were at the scene.
“If it wasn’t for the quick action of the local fire department, more sections of the bridge would have been damaged,” Barbara says. “But it was clear that the bridge needed to be closed to trail users for their safety due to the fire damage.”
The closure in September 2024 was a major blow to the Kawartha Trans Canada Trail in Ontario, affecting access to the Trail and to nature. The community also faced the loss of a significant part of their history. With seemingly insurmountable repair costs ahead, the outlook was bleak.
Thankfully, local fundraising efforts – and a Trail Catalyst Fund grant from Trans Canada Trail – helped restore the bridge to its former glory.
Photo credit: Kawartha Trans Canada Trail Association
Rescuing the bridge with the Trail Catalyst Fund
First built in the 1880s, Doube’s Bridge was once a critical part of the railway between Peterborough and Lindsay. After falling into disuse in the late 1970s, the 175-metre crossing was later added to the Kawartha Trans Canada Trail. Since then, it has become a favourite spot for walkers, cyclists and snowmobilers.
After the fire damage, the future of this popular landmark hung in the balance.
“The decking had melted, with the timber curbs along the side of the bridge being severely damaged,” Barbara recalls. “Sections of the steel railings were broken due to the fire and thermal stresses.”
An engineering study found that substantial funding would be required to fix the bridge.. Although local trail supporters stepped up with donations of all sizes, it became clear that more was needed.
Then, the KTCTA applied for the Trail Catalyst Fund’s Infrastructure and Adaptation Stream, which provided the remaining $30,000 needed to repair and reopen the bridge.
“Projects like the restoration of Doube’s Bridge are exactly why the Trail Catalyst Fund exists,” says Heidi Tillmanns, Director, Trail Infrastructure and Funding at Trans Canada Trail. “This grant helps communities respond quickly to unexpected infrastructure challenges, protect critical trail connections, and ensure the Trans Canada Trail remains safe, accessible and resilient.”
“The Doube’s Bridge project is a great example of the grant project in action – bringing together local leadership, community fundraising and targeted funding to restore a historic structure and preserve a community landmark for generations to come,” she adds.
With the Trail Catalyst Fund grant and gifts from community members, the repairs were completed in less than a year. Doube’s Bridge reopened in August 2025, welcoming outdoor enthusiasts back just in time for fall.
Photo credit: Kawartha Trans Canada Trail Association
Access vital support for repairs
Our Trail Catalyst Fund is designed to enhance the quality, connectivity and sustainability of Canada’s national trail network. Through the Infrastructure and Adaptation stream, Trail groups can apply for funding for the following:
• Major and minor repairs
• Maintenance
• Destination development
• Safety upgrades
• New trail construction
• Active transportation projects
Find out more about eligibility criteria and how to apply for trail repair and other projects on the Trail Catalyst Fund webpage.
Photo credit: Kawartha Trans Canada Trail Association
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Main photo credit: Kawartha Trans Canada Trail Association
