Metrolinx is replacing, repairing, and upgrading infrastructure on the Kitchener GO Line in the City of Guelph in support of GO Expansion.

Part of this work includes rehabilitation of the retaining walls between Dublin Street and Wyndham Street (which began last fall), as well as the Norfolk Street bridge, and the replacement of the Wilson Street bridge.
Crews are now ready to begin the next phase of this work, which will bring construction work closer to residential areas.

To complete the next phase of this rehabilitation work, crews will need to access the retaining wall via Waterloo Park.

Starting this week (Mar. 2), residents can expect to see crews setting up a construction zone and equipment in the park. Metrolinx has planned the rehabilitation activities to ensure that the large trees at Waterloo Avenue Park will be maintained. However, several small trees will need to be removed to provide access to the retaining wall.

Following the completion of construction, Metrolinx will work with the City of Guelph to replant trees in the park.

As the construction progresses west, crews will require access to Lower Kent Street east of Dublin Street to allow for reinforcing and resurfacing of the retaining wall on the north side of Lower Kent Street.

Impacted residents will receive advanced notice of details when the schedule for Kent Street closure is confirmed.

The rehabilitation of the retaining walls must be completed before a second track can be replaced between Wellington Street and Silvercreek Parkway, which will help support two-way all-day GO service to Guelph and Kitchener.

Wilson Street and Norfolk Bridges

A detailed inspection of the bridges determined some components of the Wilson Street bridge, built in 1902, are nearing the end of their design service life and require complete replacement.

The much younger Norfolk Street Bridge, built in 1967, requires some rehabilitation work including steel repairs, waterproofing, sandblasting, and painting.

Impacts for Guelph Residents:

• Starting the week of February 28, construction crews will set up equipment in Waterloo Avenue Park for a period of 6 to 8 months.
• Starting in March, Norfolk Street lane restrictions will be required and continue until the fall. One lane of traffic will be maintained in each direction at all times.
• Some full weekday closures of Wilson Street will be required; notice will be provided in advance.

Metrolinx reminds residents to exercise caution in all areas under construction by following the direction of signage and flag persons. Every effort will be made to reduce the impact to pedestrians, cyclist, and roadway users as this work is completed.

Stay up to date with improvements to the Kitchener GO Line by signing up the community newsletter, following GO Expansion on Twitter and by checking Metrolinx News regularly.