Connecting Canals: Forks Road Bridge Officially Reopens

Located at the southern fork of the Welland Canal, a timeless collection of detached homes and townhomes has been growing at Empire Canals. Many homeowners are already settled in, enjoying life in the Niagara Region with all of life’s necessities nearby. But in 2018, the bridge at Forks Road was closed down, removing some of the convenience residents of the area had come to rely on.

A testament to the commitment to infrastructure and efficiency of Niagara Region, Welland Mayor Frank Campion and the community’s Regional Councillor, Bonnie Fokkens, set themselves to the task of having the Forks Bridge rebuilt. Funded in a joint venture by government programs and the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program: Rural & Northern Stream alongside Empire Homes, this $13.6 million project commenced in late 2022.

On August 16th, 2024, the new Forks Road Bridge finally connected our community across the canal once more. But what does this mean for Empire Canals?

Located right down the street from our neighbourhood, the Forks Road Bridge makes getting around so much easier, and gives residents new freedom. With two lanes, two bike lanes, and a pedestrian walkway, it allows residents of Welland the ability to explore beyond their community without relying on a vehicle.

Prior to the completion of the new bridge, the next closest crossing was Townline Tunnel Road, an ambitious 40 minute walk from Canals. Forks Road Bridge is only 12 minutes on foot, meaning a stroll around the neighbourhood can include a beautiful walk across the water, admiring the incredible scenery all around.

Not only that, but with the ability to cross the canal without heading north, residents commuting into Port Colborne, stopping by Mud Lake or Wainfleet Conservation Areas, or travelling to one of the dozens of golf courses in the area is more convenient than ever.

But the most important improvement that the new Forks Road Bridge brings to Empire Canals is simple — safety and longevity. The original bridge was closed due to structural failure, and Welland acted fast to avoid disaster. This investment into local infrastructure ensures that residents of Welland are safe and protected in their day-to-day lives, with new and improved engineering guaranteed to exceed modern building codes and remain stable for years to come.