A planned two-year closure of part of Simcoe Street in Oshawa starting early next year to facilitate GO train expansion work has left at least one business owner feeling frustrated. Erik Tamm, the owner of The Oshawa Markets on Simcoe, which is located just north of Highway 401 and south of the area that will be fully closed, expressed concern about the “devastating” impact this shutdown could have on his business.
Tamm stated that this closure is “particularly troubling” as his market draws around 10,000 visitors every weekend.
“This closure threatens to choke traffic flow into Oshawa, which is critical for the success of local businesses, especially the Oshawa Markets,” he said. “The potential decline in customer traffic during this period could have devastating effects on our community and local economy.”
City and regional officials were only made aware of Metrolinx’s plans to close Simcoe at a meeting held by Durham Regional Council last Wednesday. A gag order was placed preventing councillors from sharing any specific details.
Sources indicate that the closure may last up to two years and will commence in about six weeks. It will affect the stretch north of Mill Street from Albany Street to Avenue Street, near a bridge over the rail tracks leading into the new GO station at what used to be Knob Hill Farms.
Image Christie Brooks
Lack of communication from Metrolinx has been a significant concern for Tamm.
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“First and foremost, there has been a notable lack of communication to local businesses about the planned construction. This absence of information is concerning, as it hampers our ability to prepare for the impacts on our operations,” Tamm wrote in a letter addressed to the provincial transit agency. He added he was “frustrated” with both the construction plans and how details have been kept from local residents and business owners.
“Many of us are still recovering from disruptions caused by replacing the 401 bridge and ongoing closures of on and off ramps. The cumulative impact of these construction projects is becoming increasingly difficult to manage.”
“I urge you to provide more information and support to businesses affected by these changes and consider their long-term implications on our local economy.”
Photo Leah Jones
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“First and foremost, there has been a notable lack of communication to local businesses about the planned construction. This absence of information is concerning, as it hampers our ability to prepare for the impacts on our operations,” Tamm wrote in a letter addressed to the provincial transit agency. He added he was “frustrated” with both the construction plans and how details have been kept from local residents and business owners.
“Many of us are still recovering from disruptions caused by replacing the 401 bridge and ongoing closures of on and off ramps. The cumulative impact of these construction projects is becoming increasingly difficult to manage.”
“I urge you to provide more information and support to businesses affected by these changes and consider their long-term implications on our local economy.”
Photo Leah Jones
Last 30 Days: 64,134 Votes
All Time: 1,150,309 Votes
1811 VOTES
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