Parkdale Avenue intersection closes for LRT-related work as Metrolinx gears up construction

Construction related to Hamilton's Light Rail Transit (LRT) project will see the full closure of a major intersection in the city's east end for three days next week. 

Parkdale Avenue at Main Street East in Ward 4 will be closed from Monday to Wednesday, said the City of Hamilton in a new release. 

Workers will install a large watermain across Parkdale Avenue as part of the ongoing work to prepare for the LRT.

"These early construction works are a critical part of ensuring roads are safe, reliable and built to service residents and businesses now and in the future when the LRT is in operation," said the news release. 

Residents can use side streets west of Parkdale Avenue and bus detours can be found online. 

"We understand that road closures can be disruptive, and we appreciate your patience as we work to deliver long-term benefits to Hamilton's streets and neighbourhoods," said the city. 

Ontario's transit agency, Metrolinx, is responsible for delivering Hamilton's LRT that's been years in the making. The 14-kilometre route will run through the lower city, from McMaster University in the west to Eastgate Mall in the east.

Construction is currently underway to ready the city for the LRT, said Metrolinx in its most recent conceptual design released in May.

The province is in the procurement process to determine the company that will do the major "civil and utilities work" to relocate utilities "strategically" outside the route, as well as add bridges, sidewalks and traffic control signals, said a city report in June. 

Once a contract is awarded, the company, along with Metrolinx and the city will set an LRT construction timeline, the report said. 

Another procurement process will take place to install the rail line, including laying the tracks.