NANAIMO – Construction work got underway at Nanaimo’s contentious Colliery Dams Park this week. But reports from the site say the work is proceeding according to schedule. On Monday, September 14, workers completed site preparation around the area where the auxiliary spillway will eventually be constructed, followed by work undertaken Tuesday through Friday to remove trees in the area.
The tree removal phase of the project is expected to be completed by Saturday, September 19, following which workers will turn their attention to removing logs from the site and preparing the area for the next stage of the project – the actual construction of the auxiliary spillway.
“As this area remains an active construction site, it is very important for park users to follow the direction of the on-site safety people and to observe signage posted. During the construction stage of the project there will be periodic short-term closures of the area around the construction site when equipment or work encroaches onto pedestrian access routes,” according to Toby Seward, the City of Nanaimo’s Acting GM, Community Development and Protective Services.
Once tree removal is completed, the current public/worker safety exclusion zone will be decreased in size. The new zone will be smaller and clearly marked with fencing and signage and will contain the area where the excavation of the auxiliary spillway will occur. A revised map providing details concerning the fenced off area of the park will be made available early next week. Additional information concerning the opening of a temporary trail adjacent to the construction site and a schedule for the next phase of work will also be provided.
Key Points:
- To ensure public safety, park users are reminded not to enter areas of the park that are fenced off.
- Members of the public seeking previous information updates concerning the Colliery Dams are encouraged to visit the Colliery Dams Information page located on the City’s website.
