TORONTO – City crews are focusing their repair efforts on the western section of the Gardiner Expressway as they await city council’s decision on the fate of the eastern portion of the elevated expressway.
“The more major work with the replacement of portions of the deck starting out in the vicinity of Strachan Avenue is going to start in the spring of 2014,” John Kelly of Toronto’s Engineering and Construction Services said Tuesday.
In December, a Global News investigation revealed serious safety concerns along the length of the elevated highway.
Large concrete chunks from the aging expressway have fallen over the past year highlighting the need for significant repairs.
The city announced Tuesday that crews will be continuing piecemeal repairs along the eastern section of the highway while awaiting a city council decision.
“We have to do something, so I think having the City shifting priorities, gives us time to look at it properly and come to the right decision on the Eastern portion, which is the only piece you can really do something with.”
Waterfront Toronto is expected to submit the results of an environmental assessment to city council next year which will spell out different options available in dealing with the Gardiner Expressway.
While some people have advocated for tearing the Gardiner down, the city may also choose to repair or rebuild the expressway.
In the 2013 city budget, $495 million was allotted for a 10-year rehabilitation of the Gardiner Expressway.
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