Bridge project is expected to close portion of Saintfield Road until November

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

NORTH DURHAM: Residents and motorists, in the boundary area between Brock and Scugog, are being advised to prepare for several months of traffic disruptions, as the Regional Municipality of Durham moves ahead with a full replacement of the Saintfield Road Bridge over the Layton River.

Durham Region has awarded the construction contract to Looby Construction Limited, and crews are expected to arrive the week of June 29th, to begin site preparation. The project is scheduled to be completed by November 30th, weather permitting.

The work includes: demolishing the existing bridge and constructing a new crossing; installing new steel beam guide rails; widening the road shoulders; realigning roadside ditches; and paving approximately 100 metres of Saintfield Road, on both the east and west approaches, with new hot mix asphalt.

"The replacement of the Saintfield Road Bridge will improve the long-term safety, reliability and service life of this important transportation link for residents and motorists," said Kyle Brennan, Project Supervisor with the Regional Municipality of Durham. "We appreciate the public's patience, while this work is underway, and will make every effort to complete the project as safely and efficiently as possible."

To safely carry out the work, Saintfield Road will be fully closed, beginning July 6th, between Old Simcoe Road and a point east of the bridge. A signed detour will direct motorists along Highway 7/12, Regional Road 13 and Simcoe Street.

Prior to the full closure, drivers should expect daytime single-lane closures, while crews complete preparatory work.

Residents living near the project may also experience increased construction noise and occasional ground vibrations, as demolition and rebuilding activities take place, over the coming months.

Despite the road closure, businesses in the area will remain open throughout construction.

"We recognize road closures can be inconvenient for residents, businesses and travellers," said Cathie Shier-Snoddon, Project Inspector with Durham Region. "We encourage everyone to follow the posted detours, slow down near construction zones and exercise caution, to help keep workers, pedestrians and cyclists safe."