The City is replacing the pressure reducing valve (PRV) chamber located in the intersection of Welham Road and Saunders Road. The PRV chamber is an integral component of the City’s water distribution system that regulates water pressures within the system; the valve in a watermain automatically lowers the incoming high-water pressure to a safer, consistent downstream level to protect plumbing systems and reduce water waste.
Project Updates
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.
Schedule
- 2025: Detailed design
- April–June 2026: Construction
Project Features
- Remove the existing PRV from the middle of the intersection and install a new PRV chamber outside of the paved surface.
- Commission the new PRV chamber
- Relocate the watermain to accommodate the new location of the PRV.
- Remove and replace asphalt as necessary.
- Restore the disturbed areas
