Residents in parts of Port Dover can expect construction activity beginning later this month as Norfolk County moves forward with a road reconstruction project on several local streets.
The work will take place on Emily Street, LaSalle Street and Oak Knoll Drive, with construction expected to begin in mid-March and continue through September. The project includes replacing aging cast-iron water mains with new PVC systems designed to improve water quality, as well as installing additional fire hydrants to enhance fire protection in the area.
Along with underground infrastructure upgrades, all three streets will receive new pavement and concrete curbs to help better control drainage along the roadway. A new storm sewer will also be installed along LaSalle Street to improve drainage, replacing the current system that relies largely on roadside ditches.
Work will take place along Emily Street between Inglewood Drive and the south end of the road, LaSalle Street between Inglewood Drive and Sunninghill Drive, and Oak Knoll Drive between LaSalle Street and Sunninghill Drive. Officials say the project will help modernize key infrastructure serving homes in the neighbourhood.
During construction, contractors are required to maintain access to homes and businesses within the project area, although temporary disruptions may occur from time to time. Residents will receive advance notice if access to their property needs to be temporarily restricted.
Water service will also be maintained throughout the project using a temporary above-ground water line while crews install the new underground system. Officials say any interruptions to water supply during the changeover process are expected to be minimal and residents will be notified ahead of time if they occur.
Garbage and recycling collection will continue as scheduled during construction, although contractors may move bins to a central pickup location if necessary. Residents are asked to clearly label containers with their address to ensure they are returned to the correct property.
The county is also advising homeowners with lawn sprinkler systems located within the municipal right-of-way to remove or clearly mark sprinkler heads to help avoid damage during construction.
Officials note that construction will likely result in some noise, dust and other temporary inconveniences while crews complete the work. However, once finished, the upgraded infrastructure is expected to serve the neighbourhood reliably for many years to come.