June 3, 2015 - Work scheduled for the Boulevard Lake Dam Rehabilitation project has been delayed, and the lake will not be drained this summer. The dam walkway will also remain open to the public, and the lake will be available for recreational use

The project is subject to the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change's Municipal Class Environmental Assessment process, which allows stakeholders to voice concerns with the project. Concerns from two residents have been raised, so work cannot start until the Ministry responds to those concerns.

"I am deeply disappointed by the delay to the Boulevard Lake Dam rehabilitation," said Current River Ward Councillor Andrew Foulds. "The community anticipated this great project moving forward this summer. The community recognizes the beauty and importance of Boulevard Lake, and of these infrastructure capital projects that improve our recreational experiences. I have fought hard, as have City staff, to move this project forward and am hopeful this will happen soon."

The contractor indicated there is no longer enough time to set up for and complete the project this year. Timelines were very tight, and required draw down of the lake to start by no later than June 16, based on fisheries requirements.

The $5.3 million project was initially scheduled to begin this summer, and includes rehabilitation work on the dam, including concrete repairs, control gate replacements, widening and replacement of the deck top, and improvements at the gate house, including a new lookout and pedestrian bridge. The work, as proposed, will take place over two years, and requires draining of the lake for one construction season.

"City Engineering has been working diligently to bring this project to construction this year, consulting with stakeholders and following up with regulatory agencies," said Kayla Dixon, Director of Engineering. "However, we have run out of time to complete the work this season."

Further information will be provided as it becomes available.

- 30 -

Contact: Mike Vogrig, Project Engineer, 625-4321