Grove Street reconstruction

Metcalfe Street easterly 275 meters

Project overview

The City of Guelph is currently exploring options to repair or replace the retaining wall located near the Clara Street pedestrian access. The most recent inspection of the retaining wall showed signs of further decline. Barriers have been placed along the wall from 112 to 172 Grove Street as a safety measure and to reduce the risk of further wall damage that could impact traffic lanes in the area.

In addition to monitoring the condition of the retaining wall, the City has completed a condition assessment of the underground utilities. Due to the age and condition of the underground utilities, full road reconstruction is recommended for this section of Grove Street.

Key project improvements

  • Upgrade the existing storm sewer, sanitary sewer and water mains.
  • Replace existing sanitary and water services from the new mains to the property line.
  • Install curb and gutter, and sidewalks.
  • Upgrade the asphalt roadway.
  • Reconstruct the retaining walls.

Map of construction area

Location map

Parking and snow removal

To ensure safety and mitigate the risk of debris from the retaining wall, parking alongside the protective barriers is prohibited.

Why can’t we park beside the wall?

There is a risk that the retaining wall will continue to deteriorate. To avoid personal and property damage should that occur, the City has accepted the recommendation of the structural engineer consultant to install barriers.

Why did the on-street parking side change?

Two of the primary reasons are:
  1. Should the retaining wall fail, the City does not want debris that may potentially overtop the wall to land on parked cars, and
  2. to maximum the travel lane, we want passenger doors to open over a curb instead of against a concrete barrier.

Where can I park?

Parking on the south side and adjacent streets, particularly along St George Park is available.
When on-street parking was permitted on the north side of Grove Street between Metcalfe Street to #178 Grove Street, there were approximately 27 parking spaces available. With the current parking arrangement, on-street parking has been reduced to approximately around 20 spaces.

Neighborhood on street parking map

Grove Street and surrounding area on-street parking

What should I do when it snows?

Following an extreme snowfall:

The City calls a plow out to remove snow from all streets. To help us clear City streets quickly and safely, please avoid parking on the street for at least 48 hours after a snowfall. This allows our plows to widen streets as much as possible and better accommodate driving and parking during the winter.

As in previous winters, on-street parking restrictions will apply to Grove Street to allow for the safe operation of snow removal and emergency vehicles.
Starting on December 1 at 2 a.m. until April 1 at 2 a.m. on-street parking is not permitted between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. unless otherwise posted.

For latest updates please visit Snow removal and Parking.

Project schedule

Works on Grove Street will be completed in several phases:

  • 2023 – Phase 1, pre-design (completed)
  • 2024 – Phase 2, detailed design
  • 2025 – Phase 3, construction

Budget

Funds have been allocated to cover the first and second phase of this project. Costs associated with Phase 3 of this project will be considered during the City’s multi-year budget process.

For more information

Brennan Walker, Project Manager
Engineering and Transportation Services
519-822-1260 extension 2530
[email protected]