MTE's Involvement
MTE worked with the Region to manage and provide engineering services for both the preliminary and detailed design phases of the roadway improvements. This included the design of the two three-lane roundabouts and a new highway ramp, along with the replacement of existing pavement, sanitary sewers, watermains, storm sewers, and gasmains. The design also improved accessibility, with 3-metre-wide multi-use paths surrounding and connecting both roundabouts to better accommodate cyclists and pedestrians. Additionally, enhancements such as upgraded Grand River Transit stops, large splitter islands for safer crossings, and LED street lighting were incorporated to support environmental and financial sustainability.
Managing the project involved coordination with numerous stakeholders, including utility companies, nearby businesses, and the Ministry of Transportation to facilitate highway ramp revisions. MTE addressed these complexities through public consultation centres, property negotiations, and continuous stakeholder communication. A significant challenge was ensuring the project aligned with the concurrent design and construction of the Region’s Light Rail Transit (LRT) project. MTE collaborated with the LRT design team to ensure seamless integration and avoid delays or rework.
Another major challenge was maintaining traffic flow—over 60,000 vehicles used Ottawa Street daily. MTE addressed this by developing a staged construction strategy that minimized disruptions. This included temporary road sections, strategic detours through partially completed roundabouts, and limiting lane closures wherever possible.
Despite the complexity, MTE successfully delivered the project on schedule and to the Region’s satisfaction. In recognition of our efforts, the project was awarded an Award of Excellence by the Association of Consulting Engineering Companies–Ontario (ACEC-Ontario).