Road Construction Hampered by Excessive Rainfall

July 14, 2011

Three rain days out of four slows progress

Higher than usual amounts of rain over the past six weeks have created an average of two to three weeks delay on the majority of the City of Edmonton’s road construction projects.

“Although we always plan for weather contingencies, we could not have anticipated the excessive rainfall we have experienced in June and July,” says Bob Boutilier, General Manager, Transportation Services. “Of the last 43 days, we saw 33 days of rain, and that has meant that our crews have been hampered as they work to complete a record number of projects.”

While contractors make every effort to make up for lost time by working through weekends and for more hours each day, scheduled completion of many projects depends on dry, warm, sunny weather. If precipitation persists (consistent rainfall or early snowfall), it may be necessary to carry forward some arterial paving, neighbourhood and special projects to 2012.

The weather has had the greatest effect on projects requiring excavation, paving and concrete installations. Road widening and neighbourhood locations where excavation is a major aspect of the project require not only water removal but also numerous days to dry. 

“We know that delaying and rescheduling construction can be frustrating for citizens,” says Boutilier, “but it is imperative that the work be done to the highest of standards from the very beginning. Rushing through a project when conditions aren’t suitable impacts the integrity of the final product and shortens the lifespan of the infrastructure. If we have to extend the schedule in order to ensure that Edmontonians are getting the best quality work for their tax dollars, then we will do so.”

Some of the projects impacted include:

  • Scona Road/99 Street – two weeks behind schedule, but still on track to be completed in November 2011
  • 23 Avenue/Gateway Boulevard Interchange – two weeks behind schedule, anticipated opening of all roads by mid-September 2011
  • 118 Avenue Streetscaping – originally scheduled for completion in 2012, some work may have to be carried forward
  • Lessard Road – three weeks behind, opening date revised to August 5
  • Neighbourhood Renewal – all locations are two to three weeks behind schedule. Completion of those areas scheduled to be done in 2011 is dependant upon an extended dry spell
  • Quesnell Bridge/Whitemud Drive – two weeks behind, road and bridge work will be completed by end of August

While every effort will be made to gain back some of the days lost to rainfall, this will only be possible with hot, dry sunny days. Completion dates may be revised or postponed if cool temperatures and wet conditions continue.

For more information:

Online Contact 311 Online
Telephone

In Edmonton: 311

Outside Edmonton: 780-442-5311
TTY 780-944-5555
Email 311@edmonton.ca
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