Bay and Beyond

Last updated: June 4, 2025

The Bay and Beyond project is a multi-year partnership between the District of Muskoka and the Town of Gravenhurst to upgrade aging infrastructure dating back to 1944. This essential work will help ensure reliable access to clean drinking water and efficient wastewater services, which we all depend on every day, even if we don’t always see them.

But it’s not just what’s happening underground; Bay and Beyond is also bringing big improvements to how we move and connect around town. Here’s a snapshot of what’s included:

Creating more opportunities for active transportation
New multi-use trail from North Muldrew Lake Road to the Wharf Sports Field
New, improved parking area at the Wharf Sports Field
Upgrades to intersections and traffic signals, including enhancements to accessibility
New pedestrian crosswalk downtown at Sharpe Street and Muskoka Road South
New street lights from Cherokee Lane to Greavette Street
New, smooth driving surfaces and improved drainage
Replacement of sidewalks and curbs
and most importantly, the full replacement of 80-year-old underground infrastructure (water pipes, storm and sanitary sewers, and watermains) to keep Gravenhurst connected for generations.

2025 Construction Season

Earlier this spring, crews returned to Stage 1 (between Steamship Bay Rd. and Greavette St.) to address underground utilities conflicting with road works, complete deferred work and repair areas impacted by the winter weather.

Crews are preparing to place the final paving surface in Stage 1. This work is weather-dependent and scheduled to be completed overnight, between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. on June 10th and 11th. Single-lane restrictions can be expected. Once the new driving surface is placed, permanent paint markings and a final cleanup of the area will follow, marking the conclusion of Stage 1 of the project.

Phase 3 is Starting Soon!

Phase 3 is expected to begin the week of June 9th, 2025 and will last until mid-summer.

Location: Bay Street between Greavette St. and Muskoka Rd. S.

This next phase of work includes:

Replacing underground water, sewer, and stormwater systems
Traffic signal and crossing upgrades
Resurfacing the road
Rebuilding sidewalks
Landscaping the boulevards with topsoil and sod

Getting Ready: Pre-Construction Property Surveys

As we prepare to start work, Trisan Construction, together with OZA Inspections Ltd., have been reaching out to residents and businesses located within and next to the Phase 3 construction area offering free pre-construction condition surveys of nearby properties. While participation is voluntary, we strongly encourage property owners to take part—these surveys document the condition of buildings and features before work begins.

Detour & Road Closures

Closure: Bay St. from Greavette St. to Sarah St., including no through access at:

Hughson St.
Wanda Miller Rd.
Clairmont Rd.

What are the impacts on motorists and pedestrians?

Motorists:

James St. will be open for through traffic as a detour, with signage to help travellers navigate around the closure.
Access to Clairmont Rd. will be maintained from Wanda Miller Rd.
Access to Greavette Street will remain open for local commuters.
James St. will be utilized as the designated truck route.

Pedestrians:

Sidewalks will mostly stay open, but short closures may happen during active construction.
Watch for signs to help guide you safely around any temporary disruptions.

Gravenhurst Businesses: All Downtown and Muskoka Wharf businesses are open! Follow the signs or simply enter the address of your destination into your GPS, our navigation partners (Google Maps / Waze) have updated route information to get you where you need to go.

Thanks to everyone for your continued patience and support as this important work moves forward.

New More Info?

Detailed maps and updates on Phase 3 and Stage 2 are available under the “Stage 2 (2025) Project Information” section on the right-hand menu.

Questions? We're here to help - contact us at bayandbeyond@muskoka.on.ca.

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