Metrolinx has revised its construction plans for the new underpass on Burloak Drive, saying the 14-month road closure residents had been fearing for over a year is no longer planned.
Instead of a full closure of Burloak Drive, crews are now opting to build "a four-lane detour road to the east of the construction site."
These road closures have been hotly debated all year after first being announced back in summer 2023.
Read more here: Burloak Drive to close for 14-month underpass construction project
This adjustment "ensures that traffic flow will be maintained primarily along the Burloak right-of-way, minimizing disruptions for residents and businesses," says town of Oakville staff.
The underpass project, part of GO Transit’s expansion on the Lakeshore West line, is designed to enhance public safety in preparation for the introduction of 15-minute all-day service, the Town says. Once completed, the line will accommodate up to eight trains crossing Burloak Drive every hour, in addition to regular VIA Rail and freight trains.
No dates have yet been set for construction to begin, though staff say its expected to start sometime in 2025. Work was expected to start late this year.
The project will also include turn lanes, sidewalks, and bike lanes. The town of Oakville says that preparatory work, like rail diversion, storm sewer installation, and utility relocation was done earlier this summer and fall.
While the detour road will keep Burloak Drive accessible throughout most of the project, some shorter-term closures, lasting up to 30 days, will be necessary to shift traffic to the detour road or complete other critical phases of construction, the Town says.
The Town also says that there will be minor construction done throughout the rest of the month, with major updates and construction planned in 2025. The Town also promises to provide further updates when necessary.
The initial 14-month closure was announced earlier in 2023, with public consultations being held over the past two years.