June 10, 2026
Final watermain connections, concrete curb installation, new bus pads, roadway paving, and softscape restoration were completed last week. The intersection is open to through traffic.
The contractor has achieved substantial completion of the project. Remaining work includes minor items such as the storm culvert outlet, installation of handrailing at the headwall and final electrical connections. These items are anticipated to be completed during the week of June 15.
May 15, 2026
- The new PRV chamber has been installed, including Phase 2 of the new watermain. Final connections will be complete the week of May 19.
- Backfilling and regrading the affected boulevards will also start the week of May 19, followed by removing and restoring new concrete curbs, bus pads, and the asphalt roadway.
- All work is on track to be completed by June 15, with the road being reopened at that time.
- In the meantime, the Saunders and Welham intersection will remain closed. Access for emergency services will be maintained at all times. Motorists are asked to continue following posted detours and construction signage. Detour details are available at barrie.ca/RoadClosures.
April 29, 2026
The contractor has installed the new storm culverts and will continue with backfilling and regrading of the affected boulevards. Preparation to install new concrete curbs and bus pads will follow.
Excavation for the new PRV chamber is scheduled to begin on Thursday, April 30, with installation of the concrete base slab and PRV chamber to follow.
Phase 1 of the new watermain installation is scheduled to be completed on Saturday, May 2. A short‑duration water interruption will be required. Residents and businesses affected will receive written notice in advance. Phase 2 of the watermain installation is expected to begin next week.
The Saunders and Welham intersection will remain closed for the remainder of the work. Access for emergency services will be maintained at all times. Motorists are asked to continue following posted detours and construction signage. Additional details are available at barrie.ca/RoadClosures.
April 21, 2026
Construction is underway to replace the PRV chamber at the intersection of Saunders Road and Welham Road.
To safely complete this work, the intersection is currently closed to through traffic and will remain closed until the project is finished. Access to adjacent businesses and properties will be maintained, and emergency services will continue to have access at all times. Motorists are asked to follow posted detours and construction signage. Details are posted at barrie.ca/RoadClosures.
The contractor has begun installing new storm water culverts across Saunders Road and Welham Road. New watermains installation is expected to begin in the coming weeks as preparation for the new PRV chamber construction.
As part of this work, there may be short, temporary interruptions to the water supply in the area. Advance notice will be provided to affected residents and businesses prior to any planned water service disruptions.
March 18, 2026
The City has awarded the contract for this project to Avertex Utility Solutions Inc. Work is anticipated to begin mid-April 2026, with final completion scheduled for mid-June 2026.
To accommodate construction activities, Saunders Road will be closed to through traffic. Access to local businesses will be maintained throughout the project. Detour signage and business access signage will be installed as required. Details will be posted at barrie.ca/RoadClosures.
Construction will also impact Barrie Transit routes and schedules. Any temporary route changes in the area will be shared in advance to help riders plan their travel and details will be available at MyRideBarrie.ca/news.
A March 2026 information bulletin has been distributed to nearby businesses.
