‘The project includes the full replacement of the Coldwater Road and Old Barrie Road underpass bridges,’ says official
A long-awaited project aimed at enhancing local highway interchanges is finally set to begin.
The Ministry of Transportation (MTO) recently revealed plans for a significant infrastructure initiative that will replace the old bridges over Highway 11 at Coldwater Road and Barrie Road, along with reconstructing interchanges, widening roads, and adding a carpool lot at Coldwater Road.
Construction is scheduled to kick off in 2027.
“MTO hired Green Infrastructure Partners Inc. and Dillon Consulting Limited to handle both the detailed design and construction of the bridges at Coldwater Road and Old Barrie Road, as well as related upgrades along Highway 12 in Orillia,” said Julia Caslin, media advisor for the MTO.
“Planning for this project began in July 2020,” she noted.
The widening of Hwy. 12 at Coldwater Road and Old Barrie Road will commence in 2027. screenshot
However, the environmental study report and approvals were finalized back in 2016, according to the notice of study commencement. MTO carried out a preliminary design study for Highway 11 and 12 between Old Barrie Road and Coldwater Road before passing it on to contractors.
Dillon has subsequently brought on Hatch Ltd. engineering as a subcontractor.
“This project signifies an important investment in renewing aging infrastructure while enhancing network performance,” stated Francesco Addario, project manager at Hatch.
“Our team is dedicated to providing practical, innovative solutions that facilitate safe, efficient movement of people and goods through this vital corridor,” he said.
“The project entails completely replacing the Coldwater Road and Old Barrie Road underpass bridges, which are nearing their service life end, with longer and wider structures designed to meet modern standards and accommodate future growth,” according to Hatch.
“The work also involves reconstructing interchange ramps for better safety and operations, widening Highway 12 to boost capacity, upgrading corridor lighting, and improving drainage systems. Additional features include constructing a new carpool lot, extending municipal water infrastructure, as well as integrating multi-use pathways for active transportation options that connect surrounding communities.”
The Orillia and District Chamber of Commerce have been strong advocates for widening Highway 12 through Orillia.
“Highway 12 has become a crucial transport route for Orillia since it accommodates both local traffic as well as regional vehicles. The rapid expansion of West Ridge paired with increased visitor numbers has led to significant congestion during peak times,” wrote Allan Lafontaine, executive director of the chamber in a letter addressed to Mayor Don Mc Isaac and council last October.
Lafontaine emphasized that it’s not just about transportation; it’s also an economic development “priority.”
Moreover, there’s talk about building a new Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital on University Avenue in West Ridge. While it’s still being planned now, construction is expected within the next decade which will necessitate smooth traffic flow over Highway 11 once it’s operational.
The Notice of Study Commencement regarding Highway 11/12/Coldwater Road bridge replacements includes these specific tasks:
Replace the Coldwater Road and Old Barrie Road bridges over Highway 11
Reconstruct interchange ramps at Coldwater Road and Old Barrie Road
Widen Highway 12 at Coldwater Road so there are three lanes eastbound and two westbound between West Ridge Boulevard and Westmount Drive North
Widen Highway 12 at Old Barrie Road so there are two lanes each way between University Avenue and Mississaga Street West
Reconstruct four intersections on Highway 12/Coldwater Road plus three on Highway 12/Old Barrie Road
Pavement rehabilitation on Highway 11
A new carpool lot located at the Highway 12/Coldwater Road interchange
Improve storm water management ponds alongside other drainage features
Right now, the Old Barrie Road bridge carries two lanes across Highway 11 while the Coldwater Bridge supports four lanes over its span.
The project’s progress relies heavily on public feedback. A public meeting will be part of creating both design plans as well as construction reports. Comments from residents are welcomed by the study team under guidelines from Environmental Assessment Act regulations. Construction is expected to begin in 2027 continuing until around 2030.
The community can check out the project website or send comments via email regarding it.
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