Ontario Construction News staff writer
Work to prepare for the future Hamilton LRT project continues ahead of early construction activities. Early works construction is expected to begin in spring 2022 and procurement – the Request for Qualifications for bidders – on the main construction contract may be issued this winter.
Several Metrolinx-owned properties on the LRT corridor will be demolished in the coming months to prepare for future construction, reduce the risk of fire, vandalism and illegal activities in these properties.
Demolition of the 12 buildings will begin in November, pending permit approvals, with utility disconnections beginning this week.
Metrolinx is working with demolition subcontractors and the City of Hamilton to make sure pedestrian, transit and vehicle access or detours are visible and easy to follow. Residents and businesses near the work will receive advance notice of demolition activities.
In the coming years, these properties will be required for station stops, infrastructure, and widening to accommodate the future LRT right of way. In the short term, demolition sites will be restored, secured with fencing and monitored by security contractors.
Demolition of 21 corridor properties was completed earlier this year, and two additional buildings at Main and Kenilworth were also recently demolished, with site restoration expected to wrap up this week.
Property acquisition for full and partial properties required for LRT is expected to resume later this year and into 2022. As property requirements continue to be confirmed, Metrolinx will reach out directly to impacted owners.