FAQ's

Ramping is a method used to temporarily smooth the edges between layers of asphalt and concrete curbs. By creating a gentle slope, or “ramp,” it protects the edges of the curb from damage during snowplowing in the winter. This helps with accessibility and reducing tripping hazards for winter operations.

The project is planned in stages. Construction is expected to be completed in 2026.

Work can take place between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday to Friday. There will be no work on weekends unless deemed necessary to hit construction deadlines. Notice will be provided prior to weekend or evening work beginning.

A bypass system is a temporary setup of above-ground pipes that allows water and wastewater services to continue uninterrupted while we replace the old pipes. This means that homes and businesses can continue normal routines like drinking, preparing food, showering, and flushing toilets, until we can start using the new pipes underground.  

There may be brief disruptions as we connect or isolate parts of the system, but you will know about it. Our onsite representative will ensure all property owners are aware and look for opportunities to schedule work during the least impactful times.

The Bay and Beyond project is a comprehensive infrastructure upgrade in Gravenhurst, focusing on replacing and enhancing the underground pipes, roads, and pedestrian pathways that have served our community since 1944. It’s about ensuring Gravenhurst’s future with reliable water, sewer, and transportation systems. The project is in partnership with the District of Muskoka and Town of Gravenhurst.

While the project will bring temporary changes, like different routes and bringing in construction equipment, we are committed to minimizing disruptions and making sure you can get where you need to go. Please watch for signs and register for our newsletter to stay updated. 

Bay St. will be fully closed in both directions from the Steamship Bay Rd./N. Muldrew Lake Rd. intersection to Greavette St.
James St. will be the dedicated detour and truck route for the duration of the Stage 1 road closures.

The traffic signals at this intersection will be fully reconstructed with new detection loops. Once the upgrades have been completed, signal timing will be assessed to enhance traffic movements at this location. 

Although a section of Bay Street is closed, two access points remain open for folks to continue experiencing Muskoka Wharf this fall.
Whether you’re coming from downtown Gravenhurst, or via 169 – follow the signs or simply enter the address into your GPS, our navigation partners (google / waze) have updated routes to get you where you need to go.

Pedestrian access will always remain in place in all phases of the Bay and Beyond project. Although some temporary walkways may be in place or relocated for a short period, pedestrian access is always prioritized. Signs will be posted if there are any changes.

No. The temporary pipes will either be covered by ramps or buried under ground to provide safe access for vehicles into the Muskoka Wharf parking lot and near Cherokee Lane.

To get to the Muskoka Wharf area from Gravenhurst’s downtown core:
Go west on Bay St. (MR 169), at the Canada Post building
Follow Bay St. by staying left through the Bay and Greavette streets intersection
Turn right into the Muskoka Wharf parking lot entrance at 908 Bay St. 

To get to the Muskoka Wharf area from Bala:
Go east on Muskoka Rd. 169.
Turn right onto N Muldrew Lake Rd.
Turn left onto James St. W
Continue on James St. W to Muskoka Rd. S (MR 18)
Turn left onto Muskoka Rd. S
Turn left on Bay St. (MR 169)
Follow Bay St. by staying left through the Bay and Greavette streets intersection
Turn right into the Muskoka Wharf parking lot entrance at 908 Bay St.

Designated Truck Detour Directions

• To get to the Muskoka Wharf area from Hwy. 11 N
  Follow Hwy. 11 S to the Bethune Dr. S/Hwy. 169 exit
  Turn left onto Hwy. 169
  Turn right onto Muskoka Rd. S (MR 18)
  Continue on Muskoka Rd. S to James St. W
  Turn left onto James St.
  Turn right on N Muldrew Lake Rd.
  
  
• To get to the Muskoka Wharf area from Hwy. 11 S
  Follow Hwy. 11 N to the Bethune Dr. S/Hwy. 169 exit
  Continue on Muskoka Rd. S to James St. W
  Turn left onto James St.
  Turn right on N Muldrew Lake Rd.
  
  
• To get to Hwy. 11 North from Bala:
  Follow Hwy. 169 S to N Muldrew Lake Rd. (Bay St. closure)
  Turn right onto N Muldrew Lake Rd.
  Turn left on James St. W
  Follow James St. W to Muskoka Rd. S (MR 18)
  Turn right onto Muskoka Rd. S (MR 18)
  Follow Muskoka Rd. S to Hwy. 169
  Turn left onto Hwy. 169/Bethune Dr. N
  Continue on Hwy. 169/Bethune Dr. N
  Take the Hwy. 11 N exit
  
  
• To get to Hwy. 11 S from Bala:
  Follow Hwy. 169 S to N Muldrew Lake Rd.
  Turn right onto N Muldrew Lake Rd.
  Turn left on James St. W
  Follow James St. W to Muskoka Rd. S (MR 18)
  Turn right onto Muskoka Rd. S (MR 18)
  Continue on Muskoka Rd. S to the Hwy. 11 S exit