Phase 2 of the Wilson Street reconstruction is coming up, but first there's an exploratory phase.
That phase will begin Thursday on the second part of the overhaul of Wilson in downtown Guelph.
The new work, happening between Macdonell and Northumberland streets, involves finding out exactly where and at what depths underground utilities are. Once the full reconstruction begins in a few weeks, storm sewers, sanitary sewers, and the water main will be replaced.
In an effort to determine the precise depths of existing utility infrastructure, crews will employ a hydro excavation process, whereby soil is moved or removed using pressurized water. Super Sucker Hydro-Vac Service Inc. has been contracted to do that work.
Weather permitting, the exploratory phase is expected to take one week to complete. Overall, Phase 1 of the reconstruction of Wilson Street and the Wilson Street parkade, from Gordon Street to Northumberland, took several weeks to complete in the latter half of 2016. The complete Phase 2 overhaul is not expected to begin for a few months.
Merchants on the street previously expressed concern that the second phase of the work could be disruptive to the flow of retail traffic. The city has given assurances that efforts will be made to reduce such impacts.
On-street parking spaces along Wilson Street will be blocked off starting on Thursday. Those spaces may reopen as the work progresses. Motorists are encouraged to park in other areas of the downtown.
(Note: This story has been corrected).
