Pickerel River Bridge Offically Opened

(French River, ON: January 20, 2023) – The Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (O.F.S.C.), the Near North Trail Association (NNTA) and the French River Snowmobile Association were joined by representatives from the Ministry of Northern Development, and local officials today to unveil the improved Pickerel River bridge.

Earlier this year, the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (N.O.H.F.C.), an operational service agency of the provincial government, announced up to 50% support towards the $122,504 project.

The Pickerel River bridge is located north of the community of Britt adjacent to Highway 69 near the French River Provincial Park. It is part of the popular Ride Around Nipissing (RAN) Tour and forms a crucial link between O.F.S.C. Districts 10 and 11. A reroute has been in place while the bridge was assessed and restored.

The Pickerel River Snowmobile Bridge- French River, ON

“The Pickerel River bridge is a critical piece of infrastructure for Ontario snowmobilers,” said O.F.S.C. C.E.O. Ryan Eickmeier. “As the only current north/south trail west of Lake Nipissing, this N.O.H.F.C. investment ensures connectivity to and from Northern Ontario for years to come.”

The Pickerel River bridge project is one of ten infrastructure projects that are receiving financial support as announced by Northern Development Minister Greg Rickford earlier this season. In total, up to $834,904 will be invested through this new partnership to make trails safer and sustainable.

“After a one-year closure, we are pleased to re-open the rehabilitated Pickerel River Bridge for the 2023 snowmobile season” stated John Miller, NNTA President. “Significant repair was completed including the replacement of damaged wooden support beams and cribbing, reparation of structural steel, replacement of handrails, improvements to water drainage and decking, as well as painting to prevent rust. The safety of our ridership is paramount, working together with our municipal and provincial partners, we continue to enhance existing infrastructure and improve the rider experience.

With over 30,000 kilometres of groomed trail each winter, the O.F.S.C. and thousands of volunteers provide an idyllic riding experience through Ontario. It is estimated that snowmobiling in Ontario generates an economic impact of up to $3.3 billion every year and is crucial part of Ontario’s economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

For more information on the O.F.S.C. or to purchase your seasonal or classic permit, please visit www.ofsc.on.ca.

For questions or to schedule a media interview with the NNTA please contact Jessica Reynolds at district11@nnta.ca or by phone at 705-495-4333.