Executive summary
- The purpose of this report is to update Council on the status of the Burloak Grade Separation and Drury Lane Pedestrian Bridge construction projects.
- Burloak Drive and the Drury Lane Pedestrian Bridge are vital links in our transportation network.
- As outlined in this report, it is recommended that City Council authorize the City Manager to finalize negotiations for and execute separate agreements for the cost sharing, delivery and maintenance of the projects, with such agreements having content satisfactory to the Director of Engineering Services and in a form satisfactory to the Executive Director of Legal Services and Corporation Counsel.
- The agreement respecting the Burloak Grade Separation would include provision for a full 12–month closure of Burloak Drive.
Climate implications
- Construction of a grade separation at Burloak Drive and the Drury Lane pedestrian crossing are part of the works required to facilitate electrification of the GO Train tracks and enhanced 15-minute service along this corridor, providing for GHG reductions in both the operation of the trains and providing for an increased transit model split for commuter traffic.
- In addition, the Burloak grade separation will significantly reduce the car idle time at the rail crossing and further reduce our greenhouse gas emissions in Burlington.
- Separating the road from the rail would also promote active transportation by improving pedestrian safety at this location.
- The Drury Lane pedestrian bridge is an important link across the railway to support cycling and pedestrians crossing midblock.