For several years members of the Tidnish Crossroads and Area Community Association have been working to replace the suspension bridge over the Tidnish River that’s on the route of what would’ve been one of the world’s greatest engineering marvels had it been completed.
Members of the association joined with other supporters on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025, to officially open the recently completed Ketchum Suspension Bridge that’s part of the trail signifying the historic Chignecto Marine Ship Railway.
“The new bridge replaces the old dilapidated and unsafe bridge that was originally constructed in 1996 that was truly past its best before date. It has been closed since 2015,” association vice-president Jack Brown said. “The options we had were to remove it, leaving a void in the trail, or replace it. Given its history in relation to the ship railway as a tourist attraction we chose to replace it.”
Tidnish Crossroads and Area Community Association president Blair Andres (second left) and vice-president Jack Brown (second right) cut the ribbon to officially open the Henry Ketchum Suspension Bridge while provincial Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage Minister Dave Ritcey (left) and Cumberland South MLA Tory Rushton hold the ribbon. Darrell Cole – Municipality of Cumberland photo
Removing the old bridge and replacing it with a new one was a monumental task, said Brown – one that local contractor, the Baxter Group, was up for.
The $1.2-million project saw the reinforcement of the abutments and towers at both ends of the bridge that support the massive steel cables. The new bridge is 218 feet long and the treated lumber decking seven feet wide.
The bridge is available to pedestrian traffic as well as all-terrain vehicles, including side-by-sides, and snowmobiles.
The trail upgrades included shale, gravel and crusher dust from the Ketchum Drive and Tyndal Road sides. A parking lot was built and surfaced on the Ketchum Drive side.
Association president Blair Andres said the opening is the culmination of more than three years of work. He said it was a huge community effort that saw a lot of volunteer hours put into raising the funds. He said the work will continue with the development of the trails.
The Municipality of Cumberland provided $50,000 to the project.
“This important milestone celebrates not only the preservation of a treasured landmark, but also the enduring spirit of innovation and collaboration that defines this region,” Mayor Rod Gilroy said. “Originally part of the visionary Chignecto Marine Ship Railway project, this bridge stands as a lasting symbol of human ingenuity and ambition.”
Mayor Gilroy said the restoration of the bridge ensures that a remarkable link to the past will continue to inspire future generations, reminding people of the creativity, determination and community pride that has always shaped the area’s history.
“May it once again serve as a place of connection between people, landscapes and the enduring story of the Ship Railway project of more than a century and a quarter ago.”
Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage Minister David Ritcey said the province is pleased to have contributed $500,000 to the project, adding it sits on a remarkable piece of Nova Scotia history.
“The Chignecto ship railway was an ambitious idea that once aimed to connect our province to global trade in a bold new way,” he said. “Today our history continues to bring people together as part of the Henry Ketchum Hiking Trail, a space where residents and visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and rich history of this region. This suspension bridge has become a gathering point for hikers, families and tourists.”
ACOA contributed $456,400 to the project.
The new suspension bridge is located on the Ketchum Trail and replaces the original bridge that opened in 1996. Antony Spalton photo
“Replacing the Ketchum Suspension Bridge improves the connectivity of the trail network along the Amherst Shore. Outdoor enthusiasts and visitors will be attracted to the area’s unique charm, helping local businesses thrive year-round,” said Alana Hirtle, Member of Parliament for Cumberland-Colchester, on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, P.C., K.C, Member of Parliament for Central Nova, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.
The Off Highway Vehicle Infrastructure Fund and the Christie-Smith Community Fund were also funding partners.