The Town of Ajax has announced that it is piloting innovative asphalt recycling technology while the Township of Scugog said it is using a stronger and more cost-effective prefabricated steel modular bridge.
In a statement, the Town of Ajax said its new approach will improve road conditions, reduce costs and support locally developed technology.
The new pilot project is on Rossland Road between Audley Road and Lake Ridge Road, and uses Hot In-Place Recycling (HIR) technology to improve road conditions while reducing costs and environmental impacts.
Full Reconstruction Later
With the full reconstruction of this section anticipated in 2030/2031, the pilot will provide an interim solution that reuses existing asphalt to create renewed road surface at approximately 44 per cent less cost than traditional resurfacing methods, said the town.
There are potential reductions of approximately 72 per cent in greenhouse gas emissions and 74 per cent in petroleum-based material use. The recycling equipment is engineered and maintained locally in Ajax.
Delivered using locally developed technology, the pilot project will also allow the town to evaluate the effectiveness of HIR over the next four years and explore opportunities for its use on other town roads.
The work is scheduled to commence on October 26 (weather permitting) and will be completed over a two-day period.
Short-term traffic delays may occur while work is underway. Residents will have access to all homes and properties will be maintained throughout construction.
Scugog’s Modular Bridge
Northern Mat & Bridge has been contracted to replace the Scugog Line 2 culvert (some 1.35km east of Hwy 7/12) the week of October 26 with a prefabricated steel modular bridge. This installation is expected to take about two weeks, weather permitting. This includes the paving of the bridge approaches.
The bridge being installed is prefabricated, which allows for a lower price tag and quicker installation.
The contractor is expected to mobilize on October 23, and a road closure will be in effect from Old Simcoe Road to Diamond Side Road starting at 8 am October 26.
Local traffic will be maintained; however, traffic will not be permitted to travel through the construction zone, said the township.