The existing storm system in the area is undersized, and the work will ensure the storm mains can handle existing flows as well as future growth, says Oak Bay
Work is set to begin next week on construction of a new stormwater outfall at Willows Beach, at the foot of Estevan Avenue.
Steve Rennick, Oak Bay’s director of engineering and public works, said the existing storm system in the area is undersized, and the work will ensure the storm mains can handle existing flows as well as future growth anticipated for Oak Bay.
The new outfall will reduce the likelihood of stormwater coming to the surface during heavy rain, a problem that could be exacerbated by climate change, the district said.
The replacement outfall is part of the first phase of a project that also includes the replacement of storm, sewer and water-main infrastructure along Estevan from the beach to Heron Street, and from Estevan along Lincoln Road to Burdick Avenue.
The project will see the replacement of 657 metres of storm main, 125 metres of water main, and 215 metres of sanitary-sewer line.
Some road and sidewalk improvements will be included.
The beach will remain open to the public during construction, with signs and fencing to keep people away from the work area, said the District of Oak Bay.
“We know that Willows Beach is a popular gathering spot throughout the year, and we thank the community for their understanding as crews complete this essential work,” Rennick said.
Crews will start to bring materials to the beach during the first week of July and are expected to have the outfall finished by late summer, with the entire first phase due for completion by the end of the year.
The work is being done in the summer due to federal fisheries regulations, and favourable weather and tides.
While most of the work will take place from 7 a.m.-7 p.m., some could be done outside those hours due to tide conditions, the district said.
The contract for the first phase was awarded to Don Mann Excavating in January, and work began in March.
The beginning of outfall construction follows an Island Health warning to avoid the water in the area after testing done at the foot of Estevan revealed high levels of bacteria, but the work is not related to the advisory, the district said.
“The causes of beach advisories are complex and numerous, and mitigating beach advisories is not one of the primary goals of this project,” it said.
The warning does not mean the beach is officially closed, but Island Health said it is “highly recommended” that people stay out of the ocean.
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