We are excited to share important news regarding an upcoming construction project that will have a significant impact on the downtown area of Drumheller. This initiative is a crucial step in our ongoing efforts to mitigate the risks of flooding and enhance the safety and resilience of our community. While we understand that construction projects can be disruptive, we want to assure you that we will prioritize minimizing inconvenience for the residents of Drumheller.

Project Overview: The Downtown Berm construction project involves upgrading and expanding the existing berm along the Red Deer River. This vital infrastructure improvement will begin near the Aquaplex building and extend towards higher ground near Riverside Drive and 4th Ave East. To maintain two-way traffic on Riverside Drive, a retaining wall section spanning approximately 240 meters will be constructed. We have streamlined the project by combining Phase 1 and Phase 2 to optimize costs and expedite the construction process.

Construction Schedule: We anticipate that construction will commence in late June or early July. Our contractor, Wilco Contractors Southwest Inc., will mobilize to the area and begin early works during this period. Earthfill haul and placement are scheduled to start in July. Our goal is to complete the construction by the end of November 2023, pending regulatory authorizations for in-stream rock placement this summer. Landscaping work in Centennial Park, which is part of the project, will be finished by the end of 2023 to ensure the park's availability in 2024.

Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures: We understand that construction activities may have potential impacts on the surrounding environment and your daily activities. We want to address your concerns and share the measures we will take to minimize disruptions:

• Dust Control: The contractor will implement various strategies, such as spraying water and utilizing dust suppression equipment, to minimize dust generation.
• Noise Reduction: Efforts will be made to adhere to local noise bylaws and use noise reduction methods and equipment to minimize noise levels.
• Vibration Monitoring: The contractor will monitor and control vibration levels within acceptable limits to minimize any impact on surrounding structures.
• Truck Traffic Management: There will be an increase in truck traffic during the construction period. To ensure your safety and the smooth movement of vehicles, the contractor will establish designated haul routes and may implement speed reductions in certain areas.
• Temporary Road Closures: We want to emphasize that all road closures associated with the construction project are temporary and not permanent. These closures are necessary to facilitate the construction process and will be reopened once the project is completed.

What You Can Do to Prepare for Construction: We understand that the construction project may cause temporary disruptions in the downtown area. To help you prepare and minimize any inconvenience, we suggest the following:

• Stay Informed: Stay updated on the project's progress, schedule, and any potential changes by visiting our website at floodreadiness.drumheller.ca or contacting our project contacts. Regular communication will ensure that you are aware of any specific impacts or requirements during the construction period.
• Plan Ahead: Be prepared for temporary disruptions such as road and pathway detours, increased noise levels, dust, and truck traffic. If you have any sensitive activities or events planned during the construction period, consider adjusting your schedules or contacting our project contacts for assistance in minimizing disturbances.
• Secure Loose Items: If you live near the construction area, please ensure that any loose items on your property, such as fragile decorations, wall hangings, and pictures, are securely stored or relocated to avoid potential damage.
• Follow Safety Instructions: Pay attention to any signage, temporary road closures, or traffic control measures implemented during the construction. It is essential to follow the instructions provided for your safety and the safety of the construction workers.
• Protect Sensitive Areas: If you have gardens or landscaping on your property, consider taking precautions to protect them during the construction period. Temporary barriers or coverings can be installed to prevent any potential damage.
• Address Concerns: If you have any specific concerns or issues related to the construction, please do not hesitate to reach out to our project contacts or the contractor. They will be available to address your concerns and provide assistance whenever possible.

To learn more about the Downtown Berm project and the Town's flood mitigation efforts, please visit our website at floodreadiness.drumheller.ca or email us at floodreadiness@drumheller.ca.

 

VIEW CONSTRUCTION NOTICE

 

We also want to invite you to join us on Monday, June 26th, for a special Downtown Berm Walk. During this event, we will be walking the berm footprint, providing you with an up-close view of the construction area, and answering any questions you may have. The walk will start at 5:00 p.m., and we will be meeting in the parking lot of the BCF. We encourage you to join us and take this opportunity to engage with our team. Your presence and participation will be highly valued.

We appreciate your understanding and patience throughout this construction project. Our shared commitment to enhancing the safety and resilience of our community is essential. Together, we will make Drumheller stronger and more flood-resistant.