Bel-Air, Bedbrooke, Field, Iris Integrated Project

On this page
Project status
Completed

Project overview

Project description

The City of Ottawa is undertaking the design work for the rehabilitation of select street segments within the Bel-Air Community. The work is being conducted to replace aging road, sewer and watermain infrastructure. The replacement of this aging infrastructure will assist in addressing flooding issues experienced within the community.

The project limits include:

  • Bel-Air Drive from Checkers Road to Garfield Avenue
  • Checkers Road from easement between 1092 and 1096 Checkers Road to Bel-Air Drive
  • Bedbrooke Street from Bel-Air Drive to Iris Street
  • Field Street from Bel-Air Drive to Iris Street
  • Iris Street from Field Street to 125m east
Map showing the projects limits as listed above.

Project update

In consideration of comments that were received from residents and stakeholders during the Online Engagement Opportunity held between January 28 and February 16, some revisions and additions have been made to the road designs. These modifications include:

  • Addition of a new Pedestrian Crossover (PXO) on Bel-Air Drive, east of Field Street at the NCC pathway connection
  • Addition of a new concrete sidewalk on the south side of Bel-Air Drive from Field Street to the new PXO crossing
  • Replacement of the existing asphalt sidewalk with a new concrete sidewalk on the north side of Iris Street between Lazard Street and Field Street
  • Modifications of traffic calming measures

Revised plan of the designs [ PDF 12.061 MB ]

Project timing

Design: completed
Tender award: September 2021
Construction start: October 2021
Construction completion: summer 2023

Project budget

Approved project funds to date are $13,775,000.

Public engagement

An online engagement opportunity was held from January 28 to February 16, 2021. Project information and preliminary design drawings were posted to the project web page. The public was able to review the designs and provide written comments on the proposed works.

A list of questions received from the public and responses is summarized below in the section titled Online Public Engagement Opportunity.

Accessibility

Accessibility is an important consideration for the City of Ottawa. The City makes every effort to provide access through and around construction sites. If you require a disability-related accommodation, please contact the project team listed below. Accessible formats and communication supports are available, upon request.

Safety

The City of Ottawa is committed to safety in and around project sites. The project team continues to work closely with the industry and to comply with recommendations provided by municipal, provincial and federal health officials, as well as the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.

Contact information

For any emergency outside normal working hours, please call the City at 3-1-1.
For construction related questions or concerns, please contact the Contractor Representative.
For general project information, please contact the City’s Project Manager.

City Project Manager
Marc Tremblay, C.E.T.
Senior Project Manager, Infrastructure Projects
100 Constellation Drive, Ottawa, ON K2G 6J8
Tel.: 613-580-2424, ext. 14391

Contractor Representative
Rocky Galla, Project Manager
K.C.E. Construction Ltd.
42 Cleopatra Drive, Nepean, ON K2G 0B3
Tel.: 613-225-1333

On-Site Inspector
Todd Penfound, Construction Inspector
Novatech
240 Michael Cowpland Drive, Ottawa, ON K2M 1P6
Tel.: 613-277-3273

Construction notice (March 2023)

This notice is to advise that construction in your neighbourhood will be resuming in late March/early April 2023. This work is being conducted to replace aging road, sewer and watermain infrastructure.

What: The project involves the replacement of sanitary sewers, watermains, miscellaneous storm drainage infrastructure, roadways, sidewalks, and streetscape/landscape treatments within the City’s right of ways.

Why: The existing road, sewer, and watermain infrastructure is aging and needs to be replaced. The replacement of this aging infrastructure will assist in addressing flooding issues experienced within the community.

When: The third stage of construction will commence in late March/ early April 2023, subject to weather conditions, and will run through to late summer of 2023. The work will involve the following:

  • Sewer, watermain and road construction along Iris Street from Field Street to approximately 125m east.
  • Sidewalk replacement on the north side of Iris Street between Lazard Street and Field Street.
  • Concrete curbs and sidewalks on Field Street, including final driveway reinstatements.
  • Surface course asphalt paving throughout the project limits.
  • Landscaping reinstatements (i.e. sod, misc. plantings, interlock, etc.).
  • Any other miscellaneous reinstatement works which were not completed in 2022.

Where: Construction activities will occur along Checkers Road (from approximately 50m south of Bel-Air Drive to Bel-Air Drive), Bel-Air Drive (between Checkers Road and Garfield Avenue), Bedbrooke Street (between Bel-Air Drive and Iris Street), Field Street (between Bel-Air Drive and Iris Street), and Iris Street (Lazard Street and 125m east).

Who: The City of Ottawa has retained the Contractor, K.C.E. Construction Ltd., to complete the work.

Traffic impacts

Lane reductions and closures of some street segments to local traffic only can be expected during construction to accommodate the work. Additional road closure notices will be distributed at a later date. Access to local businesses and private properties will be maintained throughout the construction period. Access for pedestrians and cyclists will be maintained.

On-street parking

As the various reconstruction activities progress along your street, on-street parking may be restricted. The Contractor is required to ensure that homeowners have access to their properties. In the event that access to your driveway is temporarily restricted due to construction activities, a temporary On Street Parking Permit (orange form) will be distributed to authorize on-street parking within two blocks of your residence.

Impact on the right of way and adjacent private properties

The watermain and road reconstruction is within the City’s right of way but may result in some disruption to part of the private property directly adjacent to the work. The City will reinstate sections of landscaping, driveways and walkways that are disturbed by construction. However, if you have plants or any other assets located within the City’s right of way that you want to preserve, we suggest that you may want to move them in preparation for the construction work.

Lawn irrigation systems

If you own a subsurface lawn irrigation system, or a heated driveway/walkway system, please notify the City’s Project Manager identified below.

Pre-construction survey

As part of this contract, the Contractor is assuming full responsibility for the construction work until it is entirely complete. The Contractor is also required by the City to carry liability insurance before any work may proceed. You may be asked by the Contractor’s subcontractor (Blastek Engineering Group) for permission to survey your property before the work commences, as Contractors typically conduct pre-construction inspections to document existing conditions for their own purposes. It is to your benefit to allow the inspection to be conducted on your property, as it may assist with establishing the impact, if any, that construction has had at your property after work is complete. In addition, you may wish to complete your own survey of pre-construction conditions on your property. Your survey should include photographs.

Temporary water services

During the time period when the old watermain is being replaced on your street, water will be supplied to buildings by temporary water lines. While your property is on this temporary service, your water usage will be estimated since the temporary service is not metered. Your water bill will be based on your past average water usage. If you have any questions, please contact Revenue at 613-580-2444 or WS-Billing@ottawa.ca.

Municipal fire suppression will continue during the construction period. Please note that private fire suppression systems may be impacted due to temporary water lines. If you have a private fire suppression system, it is recommended that you make arrangements with a fire protection services company in order to determine the extent of any impact. For information on minimizing your fire risk, contact the City’s Fire Services at 613-580-2424, ext. 15371.

Private water services

If your house/building was built prior to 1955, there is a possibility that your private water service may have been constructed using lead pipe. For those homes with a lead water pipe supplying water to the water meter, there is information regarding the City’s Lead Pipe Replacement Program available on the City’s website, ottawa.ca/leadpipes, or call 3-1-1.

Property damage caused by construction activities

The Contractor assumes full responsibility for the construction work until completion as well as for any damages to private property resulting from these construction activities. In the event of such occurrences, all claims for damages should be immediately reported both verbally and in writing to the Contractor and to the On-Site Inspector. This will ensure prompt notification of appropriate authorities to complete the claim investigations.

Construction disruptions

The Contractor will take every precaution to minimize interruptions to the everyday life of your family and/or operation of your business, but as you can appreciate, there may be some inconvenience during the course of the construction work, such as delays, parking restrictions, noise and dust. You may also feel vibrations due to heavy equipment operations. Vibrations from construction activities are quite common and rarely cause any problems. We would like to thank you for your patience and co-operation. For construction activity hours of work, the City of Ottawa follows provincial requirements and the City’s Noise By-law (2017-255).

Construction update (December 2022)

The City of Ottawa would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your patience during the construction of this project. We acknowledge the disruptions and inconvenience that you have faced and would like to let you know how much we appreciate your support and cooperation throughout the construction process. 
 
What: The Bel-Air Drive, Bedbrooke Street, Field Street and Iris Street Integrated Project has been generally progressing as scheduled. Work completed to date and anticipated schedule of works which remain are as follows:

Work completed to the end of the 2022 construction season: 

  • All sewer and watermain construction along Field Street, Bel-Air Drive and Bedbrooke Street has been completed. 
  • All road construction up to and including base course asphalt, curbs and sidewalks has been complete on Bel-Air Drive and Bedbrooke Street.
  • Road construction to base course asphalt has been completed on Field Street.
  • Necessary reinstatements (and temporary reinstatements) behind sidewalks and curbs have been completed. 

Works scheduled for 2023: 

  • Sewer, watermain and road construction along Iris Street from Field St to approximately 125m east. 
  • Sidewalk replacement on north side of Iris between Lazard Street and Field Street. 
  • Concrete curbs and sidewalks on Field Street, including final driveway reinstatements. 
  • Surface course asphalt paving throughout the project limits.
  • Landscaping reinstatements (i.e. sod, misc. plantings, interlock, etc.).
  • Any other miscellaneous reinstatement works which are not completed in 2022.

Why: This notice is intended to provide a brief status update on the project as we come to the completion of the 2022 construction season. 

When: The Contractor has vacated the site for the winter and will return in the spring of 2023. Construction completion is expected by late summer 2023.  

Where: Checkers Road (from approximately 50 metres south of Bel-Air Drive to Bel-Air Drive), Bel-Air Drive (between Checkers Road and Garfield Avenue), Bedbrooke Street (between Bel-Air Drive and Iris Street), Field Street (between Bel-Air Drive and Iris Street), and Iris Street (between Lazard Street and 125 metres east of Field Street).

Who: The Contractor, K.C.E. Construction Ltd., and their sub-contractors will continue to perform the construction works associated with the Bel-Air Drive, Bedbrooke Street, Field Street and Iris Street Integrated Project.

Should you have any questions or concerns about the project, please contact the City’s Project Manager.

Construction update notice (August 2022)

The City of Ottawa would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your patience during the construction of this project. We acknowledge the disruptions and inconvenience that you have faced, and would like to let you know how much we appreciate your support and cooperation throughout the construction process.

What: The Bel-Air Drive, Bedbrooke Street, Field Street and Iris Street Integrated Project has been generally progressing as scheduled. Work completed to date and anticipated schedule of works which remain are as follows:

Work scheduled to be completed by the end of the 2022 construction season:

  • All sewer and watermain construction along Bel-Air Drive and Bedbrooke Street has been completed.
  • Sewer and watermain construction along Field Street between Bel-Air Drive and Iris Street will be complete.
  • All road construction up to and including base course asphalt to be complete on Bel-Air Drive and Bedbrooke Street, including new concrete curb and sidewalk.
  • Road construction to base course asphalt will be completed on Field Street, with the exception of concrete curb and sidewalk
  • Necessary reinstatements behind sidewalks and curbs to be completed (i.e. driveways, entrance walkways, etc.)
  • Additional landscaping restorations (topsoil and sod, etc.) on Bedbrooke Street and Bel-Air Drive will be initiated in the Fall.

Works scheduled for 2023:

  • Concrete curb and sidewalk on Field Street.
  • Works along Iris Street between Lazard Street and 125 metres east of Field Street.
  • Surface course asphalt paving throughout the project limits
  • Remaining landscaping reinstatements (i.e. sod, misc. plantings, etc.)
  • Any other miscellaneous reinstatement works which are not completed in 2022.

Why: This notice is intended to provide a brief status update on project progress as we approach the fall.

When: Work this year will continue until approximately November. The Contractor will then vacate the site for the winter seasonal shutdown period. Surface works will recommence in the spring of 2023, with completion expected by the end of August 2023.

Where: Construction activities will continue to take place along Checkers Road (from approximately 50 metres south of Bel-Air Drive to Bel-Air Drive), Bel-Air Drive (between Checkers Road and Garfield Avenue), Bedbrooke Street (between Bel-Air Drive and Iris Street), Field Street (between Bel-Air Drive and Iris Street), and Iris Street (Lazard Street and 125 metres east).

Who: The Contractor, K.C.E. Construction Ltd., and their sub-contractors continue to perform the construction works associated with the Bel-Air Drive, Bedbrooke Street, Field Street and Iris Street Integrated Project.

Construction disruptions

The Contractor will take every precaution to minimize interruptions to the everyday life of your family and/or operation of your business, but as you can appreciate, there may be some inconvenience during the course of the construction work, such as delays, parking restrictions, noise, dust and vibrations. We would like to thank you for your patience and co-operation. For construction activity hours of work, the City of Ottawa follows provincial requirements and the City’s Noise By-law (2017-255).

Construction notice (March 2022)

This notice is to advise that construction in your neighbourhood will be resuming in in late March/early April 2022. This work is being conducted to replace aging road, sewer and watermain infrastructure.

What: The Bel-Air Drive, Bedbrooke Street, Field Street and Iris Street Integrated Project will involve the replacement of sanitary sewers, watermains, miscellaneous storm drainage infrastructure, roadways, sidewalks, and streetscape/landscape treatments within the City’s right of ways.

Why: The existing road, sewer, and watermain infrastructure is aging and needs to be replaced. The replacement of this aging infrastructure will assist in addressing flooding issues experienced within the community.

When: The second stage of construction will commence in late March/ early April 2022, subject to weather conditions, and will run through to the end of 2022. This will include works along the remainder of Bel-Air Drive through to Garfield Avenue, along with works within both Bedbrooke Street and Field Street between Bel-Air Drive and Iris Street. Road works will occur along Checkers Road (from approximately 50m south of Bel-Air Drive to Bel-Air Drive).

The third stage of construction will commence in spring 2023 and be completed in the summer of 2023. This will include works along Iris Street between Lazard Street and 125m east of Field Street. Miscellaneous remaining paving and landscaping works will also take place along the other street segments.

Where: Construction activities will occur along Checkers Road (from approximately 50m south of Bel-Air Drive to Bel-Air Drive), Bel-Air Drive (between Checkers Road and Garfield Avenue), Bedbrooke Street (between Bel-Air Drive and Iris Street), Field Street (between Bel-Air Drive and Iris Street), and Iris Street (Lazard Street and 125m east).

Who: The City of Ottawa has retained the Contractor, K.C.E. Construction Ltd., to complete the work.

Traffic impacts

Lane reductions and closures of some street segments to local traffic only can be expected during construction to accommodate the work. Additional road closure notices will be distributed at a later date. Access to local businesses and private properties will be maintained throughout the construction period. Access for pedestrians and cyclists will maintained.

On-street parking

As the various reconstruction activities progress along your street, on-street parking may be restricted. The Contractor is required to ensure that homeowners have access to their properties. In the event that access to your driveway is temporarily restricted due to construction activities, a temporary On Street Parking Permit (orange form) will be distributed to authorize on-street parking within two blocks of your residence.

Adjacent private properties

The road, sewer and watermain reconstruction is within the City’s right of way but may result in some disruption to part of the private property directly adjacent to the work. Lawns, walkways, landscaping and driveways may be disturbed. The affected areas will be reinstated as soon as possible after construction is completed.

Lawn irrigation systems and landscaping within City right of way

If you own any specific plants or any other assets located within the City’s right of way that you want to preserve we may request that you move the plants/assets in preparation for the construction work. If you own a subsurface lawn irrigation system, or a heated driveway system, please notify the City’s Project Manager identified below.

Pre-construction survey

As part of this contract, the Contractor is assuming full responsibility for the construction work until it is entirely complete. The Contractor is also required by the City to carry liability insurance before any work may proceed. You may be asked by the Contractor’s subcontractor (Blastek Engineering Group) for permission to survey your property before the work commences, as Contractors typically conduct pre-construction inspections to document existing conditions for their own purposes. It is to your benefit to allow the inspection to be conducted on your property, as it may assist with establishing the impact, if any, that construction has had at your property after work is complete. In addition, you may wish to complete your own survey of pre-construction conditions on your property. Your survey should include photographs.

Temporary water services

During the time period when the old watermain is being replaced on your street, water will be supplied to buildings by temporary water lines. While your property is on this temporary service, your water usage will be estimated since the temporary service is not metered. Your water bill will be based on your past average water usage. If you have any questions, please contact Revenue at 613-580-2444 or WS-Billing@ottawa.ca.

Municipal fire suppression will continue during the construction period. Please note that private fire suppression systems may be impacted due to temporary water lines. If you have a private fire suppression system, it is recommended that you make arrangements with a fire protection services company in order to determine the extent of any impact. For information on minimizing your fire risk, contact the City’s Fire Services at 613-580-2424, ext. 15371 (East) or ext. 15372 (West).

Private water services

If your house/building was built prior to 1955, there is a possibility that your private water service may have been constructed using lead pipe. For those homes with a lead water pipe supplying water to the water meter, there is information regarding the City’s Lead Pipe Replacement Program available on the City’s website, or call 3-1-1.

Property damage caused by construction activities

The Contractor assumes full responsibility for the construction work until completion as well as for any damages to private property resulting from these construction activities. In the event of such occurrences, all claims for damages should be immediately reported both verbally and in writing to the Contractor and to the On-Site Inspector. This will ensure prompt notification of appropriate authorities to complete the claim investigations. Also, the City will be taking photographs to ensure private properties are returned to their original or better condition.

Construction disruptions

The Contractor will take every precaution to minimize interruptions to the everyday life of your family and/or operation of your business, but as you can appreciate, there may be some inconvenience during the course of the construction work, such as delays, parking restrictions, noise and dust. You may also feel vibrations due to heavy equipment operations. Vibrations from construction activities are quite common and rarely cause any problems. We would like to thank you for your patience and co-operation. For construction activity hours of work, the City of Ottawa follows provincial requirements and the City’s Noise By-law (2017-255).

Construction notice (September 2021)

This notice is to advise that construction in your neighbourhood will be starting in October 2021. This work is being conducted to replace aging road, sewer and watermain infrastructure.

What: The Bel-Air Drive, Bedbrooke Street, Field Street and Iris Street Integrated Project will involve the replacement of sanitary sewers, watermains, miscellaneous storm drainage infrastructure, roadways, sidewalks, and streetscape/landscape treatments within the City’s right of ways.

Why: The existing road, sewer, and watermain infrastructure is aging and needs to be replaced.

When: The first stage of work is planned to begin in October 2021. This initial phase will include works along Checkers Road and Bel-Air Drive (between Checkers Road and Bedbrooke Street).

The second stage of construction will commence in spring 2022 and run through to the end of the 2022 construction season. This will include works along the remainder of Bel-Air Drive through to Garfield Avenue, along with works within both Bedbrooke Street and Field Street between Bel-Air Drive and Iris Street.

The third stage of construction will commence in spring 2023 and be completed in the summer of 2023. This will include works along Iris Street between Lazard Street and 125m east of Field Street. Miscellaneous remaining paving and landscaping works will also take place along the other street segments.

Where: Construction activities will occur along Checkers Road (from approximately 50m south of Bel-Air Drive to Bel-Air Drive), Bel-Air Drive (between Checkers Road and Garfield Avenue), Bedbrooke Street (between Bel-Air Drive and Iris Street), Field Street (between Bel-Air Drive and Iris Street), and Iris Street (Lazard Street and 125m east).

Who: The City of Ottawa has retained the Contractor, K.C.E. Construction Ltd., to complete the work.

Traffic Impacts

Lane reductions and closures of some street segments to local traffic only can be expected during construction to accommodate the work. Access to local businesses and private properties will be maintained throughout the construction period. Access for pedestrians and cyclists will maintained.

On-Street Parking

As the various reconstruction activities progress along your street, on-street parking may be restricted. The Contractor is required to ensure that homeowners have access to their properties. In the event that access to your driveway is temporarily restricted due to construction activities, a temporary On Street Parking Permit (orange form) will be distributed to authorize on-street parking within two blocks of your residence.

Adjacent Private Properties

The road, sewer and watermain reconstruction is within the City’s right of way but may result in some disruption to part of the private property directly adjacent to the work. Lawns, walkways, landscaping and driveways may be disturbed. The affected areas will be reinstated as soon as possible after construction is completed. However, if you have plants or any other assets located within the City’s right of way that you want to preserve, you may wish to move the plants in preparation for the construction work.

Lawn Irrigation Systems

If you own a subsurface lawn irrigation system, please notify the City Project Manager identified below.

Pre-Construction Survey

As part of this contract, the Contractor is assuming full responsibility for the construction work until it is entirely complete. The Contractor is also required by the City to carry liability insurance before any work may proceed. You may be asked by the Contractor’s subcontractor (Blastek Engineering Group) for permission to survey your property before the work commences, as Contractors typically conduct pre-construction inspections to document existing conditions for their own purposes. It is to your benefit to allow the inspection to be conducted on your property, as it may assist with establishing the impact, if any, that construction has had at your property after work is complete. In addition, you may wish to complete your own survey of pre-construction conditions on your property. Your survey should include photographs.

Temporary Water Services

During the time period when the old watermain is being replaced on your street, water will be supplied to buildings by temporary water lines. While your property is on this temporary service, your water usage will be estimated since the temporary service is not metered. Your water bill will be based on your past average water usage. If you have any questions, please contact Revenue at 613-580-2444 or WS-Billing@ottawa.ca.

Municipal fire suppression will continue during the construction period. Please note that private fire suppression systems may be impacted due to temporary water lines. If you have a private fire suppression system, it is recommended that you make arrangements with a fire protection services company in order to determine the extent of any impact. For information on minimizing your fire risk, contact the City’s Fire Services at 613-580-2424, ext. 15371 (East) or ext. 15372 (West).

Private Water Services

If your house/building was built prior to 1955, there is a possibility that your private water service may have been constructed using lead pipe (modern pipes are copper or HDPE). For those homes with a lead water pipe supplying water to the water meter, there is information regarding the City’s Lead Pipe Replacement Program available on the City’s website or call 3-1-1.

Construction Disruptions

The Contractor will take every precaution to minimize interruptions to the everyday life of your family and/or operation of your business, but as you can appreciate, there may be some inconvenience during the course of the construction work, such as delays, parking restrictions, noise and dust. You may also feel vibrations due to heavy equipment operations. Vibrations from construction activities are quite common and rarely cause any problems. We would like to thank you for your patience and co-operation. For construction activity hours of work, the City of Ottawa follows provincial requirements and the City’s Noise By-law (2017-255).

Notices (2020)

Geotechnical investigation (September 2020)

Beginning in early fall 2020, the City of Ottawa will undertake a geotechnical investigation in your neighborhood within the City’s right of way. A geotechnical investigation is a study to determine existing underground soil conditions and groundwater levels. This information will support the design of the Bel-Air Drive, Bedbrooke Street, Field Street and Iris Street Integrated Project.

Why: This geotechnical investigation work will be conducted in support of the design work for the Bel-Air Drive, Bedbrooke Street, Field Street and Iris Street Integrated Project.

What: The geotechnical investigation work will involve the drilling of boreholes and obtaining soil samples within the City’s right of way to determine soil types, conditions, and groundwater levels.

When: The geotechnical investigation work is scheduled to begin in early fall 2020 and is anticipated to be complete within four weeks. To minimize disruptions for the elementary school, weekend work is anticipated on Bel-Air Drive between Field Street and Garfield Avenue.

Where: The work will occur at the following locations:

  • Bel-Air Drive from Checkers Road to Garfield Avenue
  • Checkers Road from Bel-Air Drive to 40 metres south
  • Bedbrooke Street from Bel-Air Drive to Iris Street
  • Field Street from Bel-Air Drive to Iris Street
  • Iris Street from Field Street to 125 metres east

Who: The City has retained Gemtec Consulting Engineers to undertake a geotechnical investigation for the project and has retained the services of Novatech to manage and complete the required engineering efforts.

On-Street Parking

As the geotechnical investigation activities are in progress on your street, on-street parking will be restricted. In the event that access to your driveway is restricted due to construction activities, a Temporary On-Street Parking Permit (orange form) will be distributed to permit on-street parking within two blocks of your residence.

Construction Disruptions

The Contractor will take every precaution to minimize interruptions to the everyday life of your family and/or operation of your business, but as you can appreciate, there may be some inconvenience during the course of the construction work, such as noise during drilling. We would like to thank you for your patience and co-operation. For construction activity hours of work, the City of Ottawa follows provincial requirements and the City’s Noise By-law (2017-255).

Notice of project commencement (July 2020)

The City of Ottawa is undertaking the design work for the rehabilitation of select street segments within the Bel-Air Community. The work is being conducted to replace aging road, sewer and watermain infrastructure. The replacement of this aging infrastructure will assist in addressing flooding issues experienced within the community.

What: The Bel-Air Drive, Bedbrooke Street, Field Street and Iris Street Integrated Project will involve the replacement of sanitary sewers, watermains, miscellaneous storm drainage infrastructure, roadways, sidewalks, and streetscape/landscape treatments within the City’s right of ways. During the design phase, various investigations may be required, including, property investigations to determine building drainage and service connections. Where required, these property owners will be contacted directly. Environmental and geotechnical investigations may also be required within the City’s right of way.

Why: The existing road, sewer, and watermain infrastructure is aging and needs to be replaced.

When: Design work has already commenced and will include environmental and geotechnical investigations, supplementary survey work and other field investigations, many of which will be taking place this summer and fall.

The design is expected to be completed by late spring of 2021. Subject to budget approval, construction is currently expected to begin in early summer of 2021 and run through the fall of 2022. The construction schedule will be confirmed through the design process.

Where: Work is planned to take place within the following street segments:

  • Bel-Air Drive – from Checkers Road to Garfield Avenue
  • Checkers Road – from easement between 1092 and 1096 Checkers Road to Bel-Air Drive
  • Bedbrooke Street – from Bel-Air Drive to Iris Street
  • Field Street – from Bel-Air Drive to Iris Street
  • Iris Street – from Field Street to 125 metres east

Who: The City has retained the services of Novatech to manage and complete the required engineering efforts.

Public Involvement

An online engagement opportunity will be provided in January 2021. Project information and preliminary design drawings will be posted to the project web page. The public will be able to review the designs and provide written comments on the proposed works.

Online engagement opportunity (January 28 to February 16, 2021)

Summary of comments and responses (April 30, 2021)

Welcome

Welcome to the Online Public Information Session for the Bel-Air Drive, Bedbrooke Street, Field Street, Iris Street Integrated Project. This is an opportunity for you to learn about the project and provide input on the planned works.

The City has a proactive communications approach. The project team will update you on the project using different methods to communicate including letters and posting information on Ottawa.ca.

The purpose of this Online Public Information Session is to present the preliminary design, receive feedback, identify the next steps in this process, and inform residents of the future construction activities.

We invite you to review the provided project material and encourage you to provide your feedback. Please email your comments to the City Project Manager at the email address below, as well as any questions regarding the material, or any other aspects of the project.

Project location key plan

Project contact

Chris Ogilvie
Senior Project Manager, Infrastructure Projects
City of Ottawa
100 Constellation Crescent, Ottawa, ON K2G 6J8
Telephone: (613) 580-2424 ext. 13432

Municipal Class Environmental Assessment

As part of the Bel-Air Drive, Bedbrooke Street, Field Street, Iris Street Integrated Project, the public is to be advised of the planned works and consulted prior to project implementation. This public consultation is required in accordance with the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment process.

The project is being planned as a Schedule “A+” under the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment, October 2000 (as amended in 2007, 2011 and 2015, published by the Municipal Engineers Association (MEA)). Schedule A+ projects are “pre-approved”; however, the public is to be advised of the planned works and consulted prior to project implementation. Should the public have any concerns, they are asked to contact municipal staff.

What is the City doing?

The City of Ottawa has identified a requirement for the integrated rehabilitation of select street segments within the Bel-Air Community. The work will involve the replacement of aging road, sewer and watermain infrastructure. The City of Ottawa has retained the services of Novatech to manage and complete the required engineering efforts.

The project scope includes:

  • Replacement and upsizing of sanitary sewers along: Bel-Air Drive from 2022 Bel-Air Drive to outlet at 1096 Checkers Road; Iris Street from Field Street to 125m east of Field Street; Field Street from Iris Street to Bel-Air Drive; and, Bedbrooke Street from Iris Street to Bel-Air Drive;
  • Removal of storm drainage (where feasible) from the sanitary sewers;
  • Replacement of all local watermains within the limits of the sanitary sewer works (except for an already replaced section on Iris Street), as the existing watermains have reached the end of their service life;
  • Miscellaneous storm sewer works, including specific spot repairs to correct displaced joints, damaged pipe, etc.; replacement of all catch basins and pipe leads; and, improvements to roadway drainage where deemed appropriate;
  • Sanitary and water service replacements to the property line;
  • Full road reconstruction for most of the subject street segments as a result of the extent of the sewer and watermain works. Features of the road works are to include widened and added sidewalks, adjustments to pavement widths, including roadway grading improvements; and,
  • Implementation of traffic calming measures.

Why is the City doing the work?

Sanitary Sewer Replacement

The existing sanitary sewers within the project limits were constructed between the 1950’s and 1970’s. These sewers have reached the end of their service life and are in generally poor condition, therefore requiring replacement. The replacement of this aging infrastructure will also assist in addressing flooding issues experienced within the community.

All sanitary sewers within the project area drain towards an existing 600mm diameter concrete sanitary outlet sewer which is located within an easement between 1092 and 1096 Checkers Road. The outlet/easement sewer is not scheduled for replacement with this project, as it has been deemed to be in good condition.

Watermain Replacement

The replacement of existing watermains are planned at the following locations.

  • Bel-Air Drive – from Checkers Road to Garfield Avenue;
  • Checkers Road – from easement between 1092 and 1096 Checkers Road to Bel-Air Drive;
  • Bedbrooke Street – from Bel-Air Drive to Iris Street;
  • Field Street – from Bel-Air Drive to Iris Street; and,
  • Iris Street – from Field Street to 125 metres east.

The new watermains will be constructed as per City Standard. All water services will be replaced between the main and the property line.

Storm Sewers

The existing storm sewer within the subject street were installed in the 1950’s and are in generally good condition. The storm sewers are not in need of replacement and are to be maintained and protected during construction. The new sanitary sewer and watermains are being designed at alignments and depths to best prevent damage to the existing storm sewers during construction.

There are a few locations within the project limits where short sections of storm sewer have been identified to have existing pipe deficiencies. These deficiencies will be repaired during construction.

Existing road drainage is captured by catch basins which connect to the existing storm sewers. Catch basins and connecting pipes will be replaced with the reconstruction, along with minor adjustments at some locations to best suit the new roadway grading.

For additional design details on the planned sewers and watermains, please view the plans at the link below.

Plan and profile

Road Works

Due to the location and extent of the sewer and watermain works, the existing roadway will be significantly impacted and require reinstatement. This also provides the opportunity to make some modifications to roadway components, provide widened and added sidewalks for pedestrians and calm traffic. More specifically, changes to the roadway will include:

  • Existing sidewalks will be widened from 1.6m to 1.8m or greater;
  • New sidewalks added;
  • Adjustments to overall pavement widths; and,
  • Introduction of mid-block narrowings and speed humps to achieve traffic calming.

Please note that on-street parking allowances and restrictions will be modified to accommodate the mid-block narrowings and speed humps.

Road works proposed for each street segment include:

  • Bel-Air Drive – Checkers Road to Field Street:
    • Within this section the pavement width is being reduced from 8.5m to 8.0m to accommodate the new 2.0m concrete sidewalk on the south side.
    • It is proposed to add curb extensions fronting 2179, 2170, 2162, 2149, and 2144 Bel-Air Drive to narrow the driving platform to 6.0m. A standard asphalt speed hump will be constructed between the two curb extensions at 2162 Bel-Air Drive.
  • Bel-Air Drive – Field Street to approx. 60m West of Garfield Avenue:
    • In this section the pavement width is maintained at generally the same width as existing (8.5m).
    • There is potential for a Pedestrian Crossover (PXO) to be installed at the National Capital Commission (NCC) pathway approx. 178m east of Field Street.
  • Bedbrooke Street – Bel-Air Drive to Iris Street:
    • Within this section the pavement width is being reduced from 8.5m to 8.0m to accommodate the new 1.8m concrete sidewalk on the east side and provide better clearance from mature trees.
    • It is proposed to add curb extensions fronting 1094, 1118, 1125, 1132, and 1141 Bedbrooke Street to narrow the driving platform to 6.0m. A standard asphalt speed hump will be constructed at the narrowing at 1132 Bedbrooke Street.
  • Field Street – Bel-Air Drive to Iris Street:
    • Within this section the pavement width is maintained at generally the same width as existing (8.5m) and the sidewalk on the west side will be widened to 2.0m (concrete). The resulting back of sidewalk alignment will coincide the existing back of sidewalk.
    • It is proposed to add curb extensions fronting 1085, 1101, 1114, 1127, and 1136 Field Street to narrow the driving platform to 6.0m. A standard asphalt speed hump will be constructed at the narrowing at 1136 Field Street.
  • Iris Street – Field Street to 125m east:
    • In this section the pavement width will be reduced to 11.0m along Iris Street. 1.8m (concrete) sidewalks are proposed on the north side of the street east of the intersection for 45m. A 1.8m concrete sidewalk will be added on the south side of Iris Street, west of Field Street extending to the existing bus stop.
    • It is proposed to add east-west ride-over curb extensions on all corners of the Field/Iris intersection to narrow the driving platform to 7.0m.
    • No changes to the curb side parking provisions are proposed, with the exception of prohibiting parking close to the Field and Iris Intersection. Stopping will be prohibited along the south side of Iris Street along both sides closest to Field where parking cannot be provided.

For additional design details on the planned road works, please view the plans at the link below.

Proposed Design Elements

Landscape/Streetscape Features

The subject streets are lined with many large mature trees which are a defining characteristic of the Bel-Air Community. The intent of this project is to minimize impact on existing trees.

The alignments of the new sewers, watermain and sidewalks have been established in a manner that best limits the potential for impact to the trees, while also providing adequate separation from other utilities within the Right of Way (ROW). Alternatives are also being explored for the replacement of the sewer and water services (i.e. from the new mains to the property line) to best protect these trees.

Further documentation of the trees will be done during the spring, including identifying any locations of potential concern with maintaining specific trees while completing the sewer and water service replacements. Alternative service replacement approaches will be considered as necessary.

There is a potential that sewer and water services on select properties will need to be realigned/deflected back onto private property to avoid trees. Individual property owners will be contacted by the City Project Manager in advance of construction, if this applies.

Lead Pipe Replacement Program

With the Bel-Air Drive, Bedbrooke Street, Field Street, Iris Street Integrated Project, all water services will be replaced from the new watermain to the property line with copper service material. Replacement of water services beyond the property line (on private property) are not part of the scope of works, as property owners are responsible for this portion of the service.

It is noted that typically homes constructed before 1955 are serviced by lead water services. The City’s Lead Pipe Replacement Program provides support to eligible residents for the replacement of the private portion (i.e. from the property line to the meter) of a residential property’s lead water service pipe.

The best way to determine if your water services pipe is lead or copper is to scratch the service pipe with sandpaper to expose bare metal. The only visible portion of the water service pipe is located between your basement’s concrete floor and the water meter. Lead pipes are dull grey in colour and are easily scratched by a hard object. Copper pipes are red-brown and corroded portions may show a green deposit.

Additional information on the City’s Lead Pipe Replacement Program.

What to Expect During Construction?

Temporary Overland Water Supply

While the new sewers and watermain are being constructed, the existing watermain will need to be taken out of service and removed or abandoned. For this to take place, a temporary overland water supply system will be put in place to provide potable water to residents.

This system will generally consist of a series of connected flexible hoses which are fed from the existing watermain at each limit of the construction (i.e. Checkers Road, Iris Street at Bedbrooke Street and Field Street, and Bel-Air Drive at Garfield Avenue). The temporary supply system will either connect to the existing water service (at the property line) or alternatively will be connected to a suitable outside tap at the resident’s home.

Water quality is checked by City staff throughout construction. Once the new watermain is in place and tested, homes will be disconnected from the temporary supply system and connected to the new water supply system.

Vehicular Traffic

Bel-Air Drive between Checkers Road and Garfield Avenue, Bedbrooke Street and Field Street will be closed to traffic, however, local access to properties will be maintained throughout construction.

Pedestrian Access

A minimum of one continuous sidewalk will be maintained at all times within the project limits. The contractor will be required to provide suitable pedestrian access for residents to their dwellings at all times. This will require the use of temporary surface measures (i.e. asphalt, etc.) as deemed necessary. Access to schools will be maintained when necessary.

Accessibility

Accessibility is an important consideration for the City of Ottawa. The City makes every effort to provide access through and around construction sites. If you require special accommodation, please contact the City’s Project Manager.

Access to Private Property

The Contractor is required to provide vehicle access for all existing entrances/private approaches and ensure that all driving surfaces are maintained and are operational. All vehicle access to existing entrances/private approaches must be fully operational once the construction for the day is completed, unless proper advance notification has been provided by the Contractor to the property owner and temporary on-street parking arrangements have been made. These temporary arrangements may be necessary at times when works are taking place in front of dwellings and when concrete sidewalk and curb works take place.

Parking

On-street parking will need to be temporarily removed for the duration of construction to allow the works to be completed (provided work is taking place).

Notification Prior to Construction

Residents will be notified prior to construction commencement. Details will be provided on construction schedule and sequencing.

Anticipated project timeline

Design completion: April 2021

Tender award: late May 2021

Construction start: July 2021 (subject to budget approval)

Construction completion: late fall 2022

Potential for some carry over surface course paving and landscape reinstatements to spring 2023 following the typical winter shutdown period.

Closing

You can remain involved in the Bel-Air Drive, Bedbrooke Street, Field Street, Iris Street Integrated Project by:

  • Providing comments and questions on the proposed works via e-mail, no later than February 16, 2021; and,
  • Contacting the City’s Project Manager at any time during the remainder of the design phase and during the construction phase of this project.