With time running out to complete road construction projects before the snow flies, Sarnia's construction manager says crews are running "a little bit behind."
Rob Williams said a lot of work was completed this summer.
"Most of [the roads] are shave and paves," said Williams. "We're also doing a lot of total reconstructions, which are generally sewer separation. So, those projects are going really well. We're a little bit behind with all of them. We had a really cold, late spring, and then we had a super hot summer. So, I'd say we're a little bit behind on most of the projects, but we do anticipate completing them all."
Williams said work on Finch Drive, between London Road and Wellington Street, starts next week.
"Finch Drive paving is basically a shave and pave, with new pedestrian considerations and line painting. [We'll be realigning] the lanes to make that section of road function better and safer. We'll be providing some turning lanes and improved sidewalk considerations on that project." he said.
Williams said a full road closure is planned for the north end of the project.
"The curb and gutters have completely failed and are being replaced between London [Road] and Conestoga [Drive] with a full depth asphalt paving. To the south of Conestoga, all the way to Wellington [Street], it will be a shave and pave project, again with new line paint," Williams said.
Williams said motorists will have to detour the construction.
"The alternate route would obviously be Wellington [Street] to Modeland Road, Wellington to Murphy Road and off London [Road] the same way," he said. "So, depending on where you're going, we just ask everyone to use an alternate route. We do have a lot of residents living in that area, so we will be maintaining the access for local residents, but through traffic between Conestoga and London Road is not possible."
Williams said they hope to have the $900,000 Finch Drive project complete by the end of October, if not sooner.
A record amount of $4 million was allocated for this year's road resurfacing budget.
The funds were in addition to what was earmarked for larger infrastructure projects, including Wellington Street and Michigan Avenue.