Finishing touches start May 13 for Newmarket's Yonge Street corridor: Viva

4 more months to complete project from Davis Drive to Savage Road

Yorkregion.com
May 13, 2020
John Cudmore

Finally, the finishing touches.

The Yonge Street construction project in Newmarket is nearing the end of its road.

The final step starts May 13 for the VivaNext rapidway project, which extends from Davis Drive in the north, to Sawmill Valley Drive/Savage Road in the south.

Crews will performing tasks such as tree, shrub and perennial flower planting and bike box and lane painting for the next four months. Work shifts are daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Additionally, deficiency and warranty work, including sidewalk, road and platform repairs and anti-graffiti application to meet project requirements, will be completed.

As provincial transit infrastructure, rapidway projects are deemed essential workplaces.

During the work, area motorists are advised that temporary vehicle and bicycle lane closures on Yonge Street may be in effect to allow work crews proper access.

Wherever possible, sidewalks and York Region Transit bus stops will remain open.

If a bus stop or sidewalk is temporarily closed, directional signs will guide pedestrians to the nearest open bus stop or sidewalk.

Viva will continue drop-off and pick-up services at all regular stops and advises riders to board at the Vivastations as normal.

Motorists, cyclists and pedestrians are advised to be cautious and alert during the construction period.

Viva offers these safety tips:

Be alert

Because construction equipment is moved around as work progresses, it is important to pay attention to your surroundings.

Watch for signs and traffic barrels that indicate lane closures or shifts, as well as relocated sidewalks and bus stops.

Be safe

Do not walk into construction zones, remove signs, or move barrels or barricades.

They are placed for everyone's safety. Even when no workers are present, it is a hazardous area. Cross at designated crosswalks and follow posted signs.

Look both ways and be aware of your surroundings.

Slow down

Reaction time may decrease when lanes are narrowed. To protect construction workers, pedestrians and yourself, it is crucial to slow down and follow the posted speed limit. Pay attention to construction signs and road markings.