THUNDER BAY — Motorists, cyclists and pedestrians can expect to dodge numerous construction projects this summer as the City of Thunder Bay undertakes $42 million worth of infrastructure improvements.
This year's projects include road rehabilitation, sidewalk replacement, sewer and watermain repairs or replacements, and bridge and culvert renewal.
The city shared details of the planned work Tuesday, saying it was reminding motorists to reduce their speed, be alert, and watch for workers in construction zones.
Major thoroughfares included in the improvement program include:
- Balmoral Street between Cameron Street and the Neebing/McIntyre Floodway, including asphalt rehabilitation and a new multi-use trail. This project is already underway, and will be completed in late August. Lane closures are expected at various times.
- Arthur Street between Mountdale Avenue and James Street, including asphalt resurfacing and other repairs, resulting in lane closures and intersection closures to north-south traffic. Work is scheduled to start mid-to-late July, lasting three to four weeks.
- Harbour Expressway between Carrick Street and Fort William Road., including some resurfacing, resulting in rotating lane closures and traffic delays, starting late July for approximately three weeks.
- Memorial Avenue and Harbour Expressway intersection, where work is already underway and expected to be completed in late July. Partial lane closures continue, as do partial intersection closures overnight.
- Edward Street between Riverview Dr. and Victoria Ave., including resurfacing, starting late July/early August, resulting in the closure of that section for about three weeks.
- Simpson Street and Dease Street, including resurfacing and replacement of sewer/water infrastructure, resulting in full closure of Dease between Simpson and May Street in July, and the closure of Simpson between Dease and Rowand Street beginning in August.
The city noted in its announcement that scheduled dates are subject to change.
Details of these and multiple additional projects are available on the city's website.
City officials have said Thunder Bay should be spending $32 million more per year than it's currently spending, just to keep existing infrastructure in proper condition.
A report submitted to council this spring shed more light on existing and looming problem areas.
