Work on the Portsmouth project is fully underway, and crews are already on site!

Following the information session on November 27, Gordon Barr Ltd. has mobilized to the site. The initial traffic control measures, which reduced lanes to one in each direction, have shifted traffic to the north side of Front Road/King Street West to allow for preliminary work on the south side of the roadway. Work completed so far includes sub-excavation, paving on the south shoulder, and line painting with additional "Sharrow" symbols for the upcoming traffic detour.

Upcoming traffic shift

With the completion of the initial south shoulder work, the traffic control measures will be adjusted to shift traffic onto the south lanes. The first phase of this shift will take place between Sand Bay Lane and Trailhead Place, with further lane shifts and reductions extending east of Trailhead Place at a later date.

The traffic shift is scheduled for the evening of Sunday, December 8, to be in place for commuter traffic on Monday morning. Please note that this will involve nighttime work, and some noise may occur. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

What we heard

Thanks to everyone who joined us at the Public Information Session on November 27! We appreciate your feedback and would like to share some of the key themes discussed:

Bike and pedestrian safety

• We’ve heard concerns about bike and pedestrian safety, particularly in the pinch point between Sand Bay Lane and Trailhead Place. Additional "Sharrow" symbols will be painted and extra "Share the Lane" and "No Passing" signs will be installed as part of the traffic control shift.
• We are exploring options to advance the timelines for the Multi-Use Pathway and south Boulevard pathways to help get cyclists off the road earlier.

Traffic speed and driving habits

• The speed limit will be reduced to 40 km/h once approvals are in place. We’ve also flagged this issue with Kingston Police, who are aware of the project and any related traffic concerns.
• Traffic issues should be reported through the Kingston Police online reporting portal (scroll and select traffic complaint).
• We are also exploring the possibility of installing additional electronic driver feedback signage, like the one currently placed in the eastbound direction, to encourage drivers to slow down.

Noise and project duration

• Due to tight project timelines, Gordon Barr Ltd. plans to work in multiple sections of the project simultaneously. Please note that heavy equipment, including rock-breaking machinery, will be required for some areas, and noise may occur during these operations.

Buses and transit

• We are working closely with Kingston Transit to manage bus stops during construction. Some bus stops may be shifted or closed, depending on the phase of construction.
• Communications have been sent to the school bus services (Tri-Board and Separate Board), and they are aware of the project. At this time, no changes to student pickup are anticipated.

Snow removal

• Snow removal in the corridor will be managed by City of Kingston Public Works as part of their normal snow plowing activities. Gordon Barr Ltd. will assist with snow accumulation as needed.

We’ll continue to keep you updated on project progress and traffic impacts as the project moves forward. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Rob at rmclachlan@UtilitiesKingston.com or get in touch with our customer service team at 613-546-1181.