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Bleams Road Improvements
Infrastructure

Bleams Road Improvements

Modernizing Bleams Road to support safer, more efficient travel, active transportation, and improved stormwater management.

Location

Kitchener

Partners

Region of Waterloo

Project overview

To address the deteriorated condition of Bleams Road (Regional Road 56) and accommodate current and future corridor needs, the Region of Waterloo engaged MTE Consultants to lead a Schedule ‘C’ Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for improvements between Fischer-Hallman Road and Trussler Road.

Building on the Region’s Master Plan, the project placed a strong emphasis on active transportation, with pedestrian and cyclist considerations incorporated throughout the planning process. Improvements to stormwater drainage were also a key priority, including measures to protect the groundwater aquifer by diverting runoff to a controlled system.

MTE's Involvement

MTE led the Class EA process and coordinated a range of technical studies, including a Natural Environment Report, Stage I and II Archaeological Assessments, a Built Heritage and Cultural Assessment, a Transportation Study, and a Noise Study.

Through two Public Consultation Centres hosted on the Region’s EngageWR platform, along with numerous stakeholder meetings, MTE evaluated four alternative solutions: Do Nothing, Full Roundabout, Full Signalized, and Hybrid Solutions. The preferred alternative was subsequently advanced through detailed design, tendering, and construction.

The final design includes:

  • Reconstruction and urbanization of the roadway, including ditch removal and an underground storm sewer system
  • Multi-use paths on both sides of Bleams Road
  • Widening to four lanes between Fischer-Hallman Road and Commonwealth Street / Abram Clemens Street
  • Four new roundabouts
  • A raised median between Fischer-Hallman Road and Donnenwerth Drive / Amand Drive
  • Installation of a raw water main

MTE prepared the Environmental Study Report documenting the Class EA process and preferred solution. Following the completion of design, utility coordination, and tendering, MTE continues to support the project through contract administration and construction inspection services.

From environmental assessment and public consultation through detailed design and construction, MTE is providing comprehensive engineering support to modernize the Bleams Road corridor and prepare it for future growth.