Scheifele Bridge

Overview

Project number: 05954 | Updated: May 2026

The Region of Waterloo is replacing the Scheifele Bridge in Woolwich, located on Northfield Drive over the Conestogo River. An environmental assessment was completed in 2023 to determine the most practical and cost-effective options for widening and reconstructing the current bridge to accommodate future traffic volumes and enhanced pedestrian, buggy and cycling facilities.

The design of the bridge will include paved shoulders for buggies and cyclists on both sides and a sidewalk with a concrete barrier separating pedestrians from traffic on the east side of the bridge. See more details on the design below.

Schedule

Environmental assessment: 2021–2023
Design and planning: Spring 2024–Winter 2025
Site preparation: December 2025–April 2026
Construction: Summer 2026–2028 (ongoing)

Note: timing may be affected by weather conditions and changing project scope; updates will be posted as needed.

Budget

$24 million

Getting around during construction

Northfield Drive will remain open in both directions for most of the construction period as the work will be completed in stages. Some short-term closures may be required over the three construction seasons to safely complete certain portions of the work. If any closures are needed, residents will be notified in advance, and detour routes will be clearly communicated.

Pedestrian access across the bridge will be maintained throughout construction. However, due to narrow lanes, cyclists will be asked to use alternate routes, including University Avenue, Country Squire Lane, Country Squire Road, Glasgow Street, and Sawmill Road, during construction. When walking or cycling through the construction zone, please follow and obey all posted signage for your safety.

Traffic impacts

During construction, there will be shifted lanes and occasional stopped traffic, which may result in short delays and queuing at times. Temporary traffic signals will also be installed near Horseback Adventures to allow for safe horse crossings across Northfield Drive. Please use caution and follow all posted signage.

Contact

Ken Brisbois, C.Tech.
Project Manager, Region of Waterloo
kbrisbois@regionofwaterloo.ca

Service First Contact Centre: 519-575-4400

Public engagement

The public was encouraged to provide input on this project during the environmental assessment from 2021 to 2023. For more details on that engagement, visit the EngageWR project page.