The Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville is currently undertaking a significant infrastructure project: the Edward Street Reconstruction. This project aims to modernize and improve Edward Street, ensuring enhanced services and infrastructure for residents. This initiative, stemming from the Environmental Study Report published in February 2021, addresses the need for comprehensive upgrades to the Edward Street corridor.
The reconstruction spans the length of Edward Street from Main Street to Millard Street, and involves a full urbanization of the cross-section. This extensive project includes vital improvements to the underground infrastructure, such as storm sewers, sanitary sewers, and the water main system. Above ground, residents will see modernized hydro poles, new street lighting, and tree planting, contributing to a more aesthetically pleasing and functional Edward Street.
Following concerns raised by local residents, the Town held a public information session to discuss the project’s progress during the detailed design phase. The session provided valuable updates and insights into the design features being incorporated. Residents can access the presentation online to review the details discussed.
Project Update: Construction Underway on Edward Street
The detailed design phase for the Edward Street Reconstruction is now complete, and utility relocation work by Rogers, Bell, and Hydro One along Edward Street, from Main Street to the cul-de-sac, has been successfully finished.
We are pleased to announce that the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville has awarded the Edward Street Reconstruction contract to North Rock Group Ltd. Construction is scheduled to begin in late summer 2024 and continue throughout the construction season. The project zone covers Edward Street from Main Street to its northern end at Millard Street. The work encompasses significant upgrades to storm drainage, sanitary sewer systems, the watermain, road infrastructure, sidewalks, and street lighting, all within the Edward Street area.
Currently, North Rock Group Ltd., the contractor for the Edward Street Reconstruction Project, is installing a temporary watermain along Edward Street, Rupert Avenue, and Harold Avenue. This essential step is necessary to facilitate the construction of the new permanent watermain on Edward Street. Temporary water service connections will be established at properties via accessible outside hose bibs. Once the temporary water system is operational, the contractor will proceed with installing the new watermain and service connections along Edward Street. This phase is expected to commence the week of October 21, 2024, and be completed by mid-December.
Please note that the Edward Street Reconstruction project will implement temporary measures during the winter shutdown period. These measures will remain in place until favorable weather conditions return in 2025, at which point construction will resume.
What to Expect Next for the Edward Street Area
In preparation for the upcoming construction activities, the Town has engaged Englobe Corporation to conduct pre-construction condition surveys of private residences along Edward Street. This survey, provided at no cost to homeowners, is designed to document the current structural condition of both the exterior and interior (with homeowner permission) of Edward Street residences. Englobe Corporation will be contacting residents in the near future to schedule these surveys.
Furthermore, CIMA+ has been retained by the Town to provide full-time site inspection services throughout the Edward Street Reconstruction project, ensuring quality and adherence to project plans.
Minimizing Disruption for Edward Street Residents
The Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville is committed to minimizing disruption for residents during the Edward Street Reconstruction. Advance notice will be provided for any planned disruptions to driveway access or Town services. Residents are kindly asked to label their trash and recycling containers, as the contractor may need to move them during construction.
It is important to note that the Town is not responsible for damage or loss to privately-owned items located within the public road right-of-way. Residents are advised to remove any such items before construction begins on Edward Street. Traffic disruptions are anticipated during the construction period, and all necessary traffic control measures will be implemented to manage traffic flow and ensure safety within the Edward Street construction zone.
December 10, 2024 Update: By next week, the contractor will complete a general site clean-up and install temporary asphalt over the watermain trench along the west side of Edward Street, from Second Street to the end of Edward Street. Work will resume in 2025 to complete the remaining phases of the Edward Street Reconstruction.
Sump Pump Considerations for Edward Street Properties
For properties on Edward Street with sump pumps that exit the house below ground level and cannot be disconnected, reconnection to the field drain system will be facilitated where feasible during construction. Residents with sump pumps are requested to notify the Town to ensure appropriate arrangements are made during the Edward Street Reconstruction process.
Map of Edward Street Reconstruction Area in Whitchurch-Stouffville, Ontario, showing Bramble Crescent closure and alternative parking at Stouffville Arena.
Note: Bramble Crescent from North of Edward Street to south of Millard Street is currently closed for public vehicular and pedestrian access due to active construction site. Please use Stouffville Arena Parking Lot instead of parking along Bramble Crescent and use entrance from Ninth Line and Recreation Lane to access the Stouffville Ball Diamonds and Track and other facilities in that area.
