The District of Muskoka and the Town of Bracebridge are poised to begin a $5.3 million overhaul of the roads in and around Woodchester Ave.
During their last meeting, the District Engineering and Public Works Committee awarded a contract for $4.3 million to Fowler Construction, pending the Town of Bracebridge’s contribution of the remainder of the funds.
Sections of roadway set for reconstruction include Bird Lane from Taylor Road to its end, Richard Street from Bird Lane to Woodchester Avenue, and Woodchester Avenue from Richard Street to 130 m southerly. The project will primarily tackle water and wastewater infrastructure beneath these roads.
The project is expected to be completed over the course of two years, commencing on June 26, 2023 with total completion by September 20, 2024.
Councillor Robert Lacroix said questioned staff on why there was only a single bidder for the project.
“It’s too bad we have a $4-5 million job and we only get one contractor bidding on it,” said Lacroix.
Mark Misko, the District Director of Engineering and Transportation, said part of the issue could be because the project stretches over two years.
“We’re looking at how we can get more bids in and encourage more competitive bids but it’s at their discretion to submit at the end of the day,” said Misko.
The project will shut down between December 15, 2023 and May 15, 2024 to avoid poor quality work and hindrance to winter operations.
According to staff, during the periods of active construction, rolling single-lane closures will be in effect on all three local roads. Local access will be maintained, however through traffic will be discouraged. Taylor Road will experience periods of single-lane closure while necessary tie-in work is completed on Bird Lane during the 2023 construction season.
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