April 18, 2011

In February crews began work installing cofferdams at the Keith Bridge. This work is now complete and we are moving into the next phase of work which is driving piles for the bridge foundation.

What is pile driving and why is it necessary?

Pile driving is a common method of constructing bridge foundations. To help support the bridge, a steel beam is driven into soil beneath the bridge foundation until it reaches a hard layer.

How are piles driven?

The piles are driven into the soil by a large hammer, mounted on a crane.

How long will this work take?

• Piling bridge foundations will take approximately 4-6 weeks.
• Work will be done in stages, alternating from the southwest to the southeast side.

What can I expect to see and hear?

• General construction will continue between 7am and 7pm, Monday to Friday.
• Driving the piles for the foundation will cause some noise and vibration. This work is restricted to the hours of 8am to 4pm.
• Noise and vibration monitoring will be conducted to ensure levels are kept within provincial standards.

Will there be other impacts to the area?

• There may be short-term disruptions to traffic when equipment is being delivered. In these cases, there will be a flag person on site to direct drivers and pedestrians.
• When work is closer to the bridge and sidewalk, the south side of Davis Drive will have temporary sidewalk closures and a detour to the north side.

If you have questions about Davis Drive rapidway project, please contact Andrea Witty, Community Liaison Specialist at andrea.witty@york.ca or 1-877-464-9675, ext. 1022.