By Robin MacLennan
Ontario Construction News staff writer
The City of Guelph and the owners of the Dolime Quarry have reached a potential solution to address concerns about how operations at the quarry could affect the city’s drinking water.
If approved by Guelph City Council and the Province of Ontario, the proposal would see Dolime Quarry closed early and the site revitalized into a new mixed-use residential neighbourhood. It’s a solution that would give the municipality control of the quarry’s water supply. which is essential for protecting the clean and safe drinking water.
“After years of exploring a number of solutions through mediation over the last five years, this is a huge step forward,” said Guelph Mayor Cam Guthrie. “We think closing the quarry early is a real win for our community because it will finally address our longstanding drinking water concerns.”
Dolime Quarry currently diverts about 11 million litres of water a day, some that could use for the drinking water supply when the city assumes control of the water. Guelph would also build a system to protect the groundwater supply from exposure to surface water contamination that could result from damage to the aquitard—the layer of dense rock that acts like a barrier to protect groundwater.
River Valley Developments, the owners of the quarry, would lead the revitalization of the quarry site with a new residential neighbourhood.
City Council and staff are sharing the proposal with residents before Council makes its decision.
Our Community, Our Water is a public education and engagement campaign to inform the community about the proposed solution and invite feedback.
Until the end of November, residents will have in-person and online opportunities to learn more about the proposed solution, share concerns and ask questions.
To learn more and get involved, residents can visit guelph.ca to read more about the proposed solution or attend in-person events with opportunities to ask staff experts questions:
- Saturday, Nov. 9, 2019 from 9 a.m.-to 1 p.m.at the West End Community Centre, 21 Imperial Rd. S.
- Saturday Nov. 16, 2019 from 1-5 p.m.at Old Quebec Street Mall, 55 Wyndham St. N.
- Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2019, 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Holiday Inn Guelph Hotel & Conference Centre, Wellington Room, 601 Scottsdale Dr.
The city will summarize feedback in a public report expected in early 2020.
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