Start date: July 10, 2023 End date: Late 2025. More information at: toronto.ca/portunionroad
The City of Toronto will continue road reconstruction and watermain replacement on Port Union Road from Island Road to Lawrence Avenue East. Improvements that will be made as part of this work include widening Port Union Road to create a new northbound vehicle lane, installation of raised cycle tracks and continuous sidewalks on both sides of the street.
To improve road safety, new centre-lanes will be placed at select locations, and curb extensions with raised pedestrian crossings will be added at side streets.
Once complete, these changes will improve conditions for people walking, cycling and driving, and will help to better manage traffic flow.
Port Union Road September 2024 Construction Update
The road construction project on Port Union Road began in July 2023 and was initially scheduled for completion this December. However, due to unforeseen conflicts with existing underground utilities, including Bell, Hydro and Rogers, there have been delays. These conflicts required the city’s contractor to resolve utility issues before moving forward.
To minimize the impact of these delays, the contractor shifted focus to the west side of Port Union Road. Work is currently underway between Island Rd. and Lawrence Ave. E. Here’s a summary of the progress and upcoming activities:
Current Progress
● Excavation and Retaining Walls: Full excavation of the existing road base and construction of retaining walls have been completed.
● Hydro Poles: New hydro poles have been installed between Island Rd. and Tilley Dr.
Ongoing Work
Over the next few weeks, residents can expect to see the following activities:
● Installation of catch basins and storm pipe leads between Island Rd. and Lawson Rd.
● Construction of raised cycle tracks between Lawson and Lawrence.
● Installation of new streetlights between Island Rd. and Lawson.
● Construction of sidewalks between Island Rd. and Lawson.
Revised Schedule
The completion of all road work on the west side of Port Union Road from Island Rd. to Lawrence Ave. E. is now expected by mid-December 2024. Construction on the east side of Port Union Road will begin in spring 2025. The contractor plans to work through the winter, weather permitting, to prepare for this phase, including constructing retaining walls and installing streetlight infrastructure. With these adjustments, the overall project is now projected to conclude by late 2025.
Work Hours and Zone
● Hours: Construction is permitted from Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., with occasional weekend work as necessary.
● Work Zone: The active work area extends approximately two kilometres in length, with crews operating in various locations within this zone.
What to Expect
Construction projects often involve periods of visible activity followed by quieter phases. This project, involving complex tasks such as relocating underground infrastructure and coordinating with utility companies, will experience fluctuations in crew presence and activity levels.
Progress Update on Port Union Road Improvements Project – June 2024
By Amaan Jabbar
The Centennial community eagerly awaits the completion of the Port Union Road Improvements Project, and we’re thrilled to provide you with the latest update on its progress. The construction work, particularly focusing on the stretch from Lawson Road to Lawrence Avenue East, is well underway, marking significant milestones in enhancing our local infrastructure.
Excavation and Traffic Signal Installation
As of April 26, work crews have made substantial headway by completing the excavation of the west side of Port Union Road from Lawson Road to north of the Centennial Plaza at Lawrence Avenue East. Additionally, temporary traffic signals have been installed at both the Lawson Road and Lawrence Avenue East intersections, ensuring smooth traffic flow and safety for commuters.
Upcoming Activities
As we move forward, the contractor is set to embark on several crucial activities in the month of June:
- Tree Removal for Hydro Pole Installation: To accommodate the installation of hydro poles, trees will be removed from the area north of Lawson Road up to Rozell Road on the west side of the road. Additionally, pruning of select trees near Rozell Road will be carried out to facilitate construction activities.
- Excavation for Bike Lanes and Curbs: Excavation work will commence for the construction of bike lanes and curbs along the west side of the road, spanning from Lawson Road to Lawrence Avenue East. This excavation is vital for road widening and the creation of raised bike lanes, promoting safer and more accessible cycling routes.
- Installation of Catch Basins: The installation of catch basins is scheduled between Lawson Road and Lawrence Avenue, including the vicinity of the Lawrence Avenue intersection. These catch basins play a crucial role in managing stormwater runoff, contributing to improved drainage and reduced flooding risks.
- Asphalt Grinding: Crews will continue the grinding of asphalt on the west side of the road, ensuring the surface is prepared for subsequent construction phases. This meticulous process is essential for achieving a smooth and durable roadway.
Community Impact and Future Outlook
While construction activities may cause temporary inconveniences, such as traffic diversions and noise, it’s important to recognize the long-term benefits that the Port Union Road Improvements Project will bring to our community. Enhanced road infrastructure, including widened lanes, designated bike paths, and improved drainage systems, will not only improve traffic flow but also enhance overall safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
As the project progresses, we remain committed to keeping the community informed about developments and addressing any concerns that may arise. We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we work towards creating a more efficient and sustainable transportation network for Centennial.
Stay tuned for further updates as we continue to make strides towards the successful completion of the Port Union Road Improvements Project.
For any questions, contact:
By phone: 416-392-3556
By email: PortUnion@toronto.ca
Visit the project webpage: toronto.ca/PortUnionRoad
This will be CCRA’s last update until the spring when we will let you know about the resumption of road reconstruction work.