It has been some time since our last update, and we are pleased to share that the Fixed Link Project has continued to make steady progress over the past year. While much of the work has taken place behind the scenes, important milestones have been reached that set the stage for an active and productive fall and year ahead.

Recent Progress

Following the Georgina Island First Nation (GIFN) election earlier this year, the newly confirmed Council was fully briefed on the project and engaged in discussions to strengthen alignment and prepare for next steps.

Over the past year, Council and its partners have advanced several key project components. Technical and environmental studies have been completed, early design and engineering work is underway, and updated financial planning has been developed to support informed decision-making.

These efforts, some completed and others ongoing, are helping to build a strong foundation for the next stage of planning, engagement, and government coordination

Community engagement sessions have provided opportunities for members to hear updates, ask questions, and share feedback directly with the project team. Input from these sessions has helped shape design, planning, and financial review work, ensuring that community perspectives remain at the center of the project’s development.

Community Vote

In October, community members took part in a vote to guide the next steps for the project. More than one-third of eligible members cast ballots, reflecting strong participation and interest in Georgina Island’s future.

Members were asked to choose between two transportation options for the community’s long-term connection:

• a Fixed Link (bridge or causeway) providing a permanent connection to the mainland, or
• a Water-Based Option maintaining marine transportation as the primary mode of travel with opportunities for future service and infrastructure improvements.

Of those who voted, approximately 64 percent supported pursuing a Fixed Link future. This outcome provides Chief and Council with direction to move forward with the next phase of technical design, financial planning, and engagement.

Council extends sincere thanks to everyone who took the time to participate. The vote marks an important milestone in the project’s progress and reinforces that the path ahead continues to be shaped by the community.

Looking Ahead

With the community vote now complete, the project team is preparing for the upcoming submission of the Detailed Project Description (DPD) to the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC), which oversees the federal review process. The DPD outlines the project’s scope, objectives, and potential impacts, and represents an important next step in advancing the regulatory review.

As this milestone approaches, the work of the Georgina Island Fixed Link Secretariat is wrapping up, marking the completion of the Secretariat’s original mandate to help Chief and Council maintain momentum and advance the project to this stage. Planning and coordination for the next phase of design, financial modeling, and engagement will continue under an updated structure designed to support long-term project delivery and transparency.

As the project moves into 2026, year-end activities will focus on finalizing technical and regulatory submissions. Public updates will resume in the new year as new milestones are reached, and the Nation looks forward to sharing continued progress toward a safe, reliable, and sustainable connection for Georgina Island.