Construction on the Footbridge Road bridge in the Township of North Dumfries has been temporarily halted after the discovery of nesting birds on the structure. The pause, confirmed by township officials, is required under provincial and federal wildlife protection laws that prohibit disturbance of active bird nests.
Work Stoppage Due to Protected Species
The bridge, which spans a local waterway, was undergoing repairs when workers identified nests belonging to species protected under the Migratory Birds Convention Act. According to the township, work ceased immediately upon discovery to avoid penalties and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
“We are working with environmental consultants to monitor the nests and determine when construction can safely resume,” said a township spokesperson. The delay is expected to last several weeks until the birds have fledged and left the nests.
Impact on Project Timeline
The pause affects a portion of the bridge rehabilitation project, which was scheduled for completion later this summer. Township officials estimate the delay could push the project’s end date into early fall, depending on nesting activity. No cost overruns have been reported yet, but the township is assessing potential budget impacts.
Residents have been notified of the delay, and detours remain in place. The bridge will stay open to pedestrian traffic, but vehicle access is restricted during construction.
Wildlife Protection Common in Infrastructure Projects
Similar pauses have occurred on other Ontario infrastructure projects, including road and building renovations, where nesting birds are found. The Migratory Birds Convention Act makes it illegal to disturb most bird species during nesting season, which typically runs from April to August. Contractors are required to conduct pre-construction surveys to identify nests, but active nests discovered later must be left undisturbed until young birds fledge.
“It’s a standard procedure to protect wildlife, and we appreciate the public’s patience,” the spokesperson added. The township will provide updates as the situation develops.
