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Major upgrades to Old East Village inching closer to reality

A section of Old East Village is set for a revitalization. During Tuesday's civics works committee, politicians will decide whether to endorse a $12 million construction contract for an infrastructure renewal project on Dundas Street from Adelaide Street North to Ontario Street. 

The $12M construction project includes an eastbound cycle lane as part of the east-west bikeway

Sofia Rodriguez · CBC ·
Some of the infrastructure in Old East Village is more than 100 years old, Yanchula said.   (Paula Duhatschek/CBC)

A section of Old East Village is set for a revitalization. 

During next week's civics works committee, politicians will decide who will get a multi-million dollar construction contract for an infrastructure renewal project on Dundas Street from Adelaide Street North to Ontario Street. 

"It's all just a real refresh for that part of Old East Village," said Jim Yanchula, manager of downtown projects and business relations for the city. 

"People will get reliable services out of the deal because that's what this infrastructure project is all about. But they'll also get a more pleasant walking environment, a more pleasant cycling environment without taking the cars off the street."

Currently, some of the infrastructure in that area is more than 100 years old, Yanchula said.  

"We've got vintage infrastructure that needs to be upgraded and upsized to allow for new developments to tap into it," he said. 

The biggest improvements will take place underground, according to Yanchula. But, he added, there will be plenty of upgrades that people will be able to see and take advantage of. 

"The thing people will notice for sure is that it's bicycle friendly," he said, adding that the project includes the construction of the eastbound leg of the city's east-west bikeway that starts at the city's core. 

This eastbound cycle lane is part of the Dundas Cycle Track, connecting Dundas Street between Wellington Street and Egerton Street with a separated east-west cycling route. (City of London)

The infrastructure renewal project includes: 

  • Full road reconstruction, including new asphalt, curbs and gutters
  • A separated eastbound cycle lane on the south side of Dundas Street
  • Parking bays on the north side of Dundas Street
  • Wider sidewalks
  • New street lights
  • Raised planter beds and more than 100 new trees
  • Sewer and watermain replacements
  • Utility upgrades

The lowest bid submitted to city hall is $12 million to complete the project.  

If endorsed by committee, city council will still have to approve the contract before shovels can hit the ground, which could happen as early as April.

There are two phases to the work. The first is between between English Street and Ontario Street. 

Phase two of the project, from Adelaide Street North to Elizabeth Street is slated for the spring of 2021 and is scheduled to be done by that fall. 

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