Category: Construction

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Construction Rapidways Safety Signs and barrels Traffic signals Uncategorized Video

the value of patience – and safety

We know construction can be messy and disruptive at times, and we thank you for your patience and understanding as we work hard to transform the corridor to a complete street with wide pedestrian-friendly sidewalks, shade-giving trees, bike lanes and rapid transit.

check out our latest video with its brief but important safety messages

Because safety during rapidway construction is crucial, everyone must do their part. The important messages are: always cross at the designated crosswalk, pay attention to posted signs in and around construction zones, and obey the posted speed limit.

the reasons for bus rapid transit

Once construction of the rapidway is complete and the vivastations are open for service, Viva commute times will improve. Not only that, Viva buses can take advantage of priority traffic signals to help them stay on schedule.

Bus rapid transit also provides a viable option to get around as the population increases over the decades to come. It’s all part of a rapid transit network that connects the Region’s urban centres.

Your patience is appreciated!

For information about ongoing vivaNext projects, be sure to subscribe to email updates, and follow us on Twitter. Questions or comments? Comment below or email us at contactus@vivanext.com.

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Construction Safety Signs and barrels Uncategorized Video

let’s slow down and drive carefully, together

Blogpost by: Monica DeLuca

Summer’s here! And while summer means travelling with no worries of sliding on ice or wiping snow off the car windshield, it is also prime rapidway construction season. And while drivers, cyclists, pedestrians and transit riders are travelling around York Region, construction crews are out on the corridors daily working to upgrade utilities, widen the road to make way for the rapidway, construct vivastations and all the while ensuring that safety is a top priority.

To help keep everyone as safe as possible, it’s important to obey the posted speed limit in construction zones.

roadways under construction

During construction, lane closures are frequent and in the process of road widening and curb removal, uneven gravel surfaces are prominent. As a result, the roads are impacted and since driving conditions are not as smooth as anticipated; speed limits are reduced to prevent hazardous situations such as motor collisions.

workers are vulnerable

Making a conscious effort to slow down and abide by the posted speed limit contributes to the safety of those on the road including, pedestrians, cyclists, motorists and construction crews who are often working in close proximity to the roadside.

be aware of machinery

While driving, it’s important to take note of construction machinery which is typically larger than other vehicles on the road. Be attentive to the different types of equipment as well as to changes and reduction in traffic lanes

We understand how exciting these summer months can be and how tempting it is to rush home after a long day, yet your safety is one of our top priorities, and at vivaNext we work hard to keep our community protected.

Safety is a shared responsibility. So the next time you’re driving near a construction site, slow down,  and be aware of the reduced speed limits in your area.

For information about ongoing vivaNext projects, be sure to subscribe to email updates, and follow us on Twitter. Questions or comments? Comment below or email us at contactus@vivanext.com.

 

Categories
Construction Rapidways Safety Signs and barrels Traffic signals Uncategorized

school’s out for the summer

Blogpost by: Katherine Yasinska

With the rising temperatures, it’s clear that summer is here! Summer brings barbecues, beach days and trips to the zoo. And now that school is over for the summer, kids and their families will be spending more time outside and on our roads.  It also means that the construction of our rapidways – on Highway 7 West in Woodbridge, Bathurst & Centre in Thornhill, and on Yonge Street in Richmond Hill and Newmarket – is in full swing.

Summer is our favourite season, not only because of the beautiful weather, but also because it means our vision of efficient and reliable transportation is becoming closer to completion every day.

safety in construction areas is key

Children of all ages are trading in their backpacks and pencils for bikes and basketballs. With school over for the summer, kids and their families will be spending more time outside and on our roads. That’s why we’d like to remind motorists to drive carefully and exercise caution in order to keep kids safe and sound!  In construction areas, safety should be even more top of mind – for everyone.

have fun and keep safe this summer

It’s inevitable that drivers can get distracted from time-to-time. The warmer weather and busy summer schedules may create even more distractions, which is why it’s so important to remember to be alert and cautious.

safety is a shared responsibility

When you’re driving through a construction zone or driving through a neighborhood filled with kids playing outside, it’s important to give your undivided attention to the road, pay attention to construction signage, and be alert for pedestrians, construction workers, and cyclists.

Summer brings many fun activities, but it also requires more attention to help everyone enjoy their summer. Remember, safety is a shared responsibility.

 

For information about ongoing vivaNext projects, be sure to subscribe to email updates, and follow us on Twitter. Questions or comments? Comment below or email us at contactus@vivanext.com.

Categories
Construction Rapidways Safety Signs and barrels Uncategorized

read, set, signs!

pay attention to posted signs in construction zones

Blogpost by: Ashni Bhoolaton

Summertime means replacing our winter tires and boots with bikes and running shoes. It also means that it is a busy season as construction ramps up for all the vivaNext projects. As the streets become livelier, the safety of everyone is a top priority.

To assist in getting the message out, you will notice signs and barrels out on rapidway construction routes to guide and raise awareness. To find out even more, check out our latest video: Pay attention to posted signs.

When it comes to vivaNext rapidway construction, signs and markers are the main method of communication to the public. So it is very important for pedestrians, transit riders, cyclists and drivers to keep an eye out for the vivaNext construction signs. It’s important take the time to read and understand them because they’ve been specifically designed and placed for your safety.

sidewalk closures

There are hazards to be aware of on construction sites and proper protective equipment is required to be worn by construction workers and project team members at all times.

It is really important for members of the public to stay out of these construction zones and follow posted signs to stay in designated safe areas. If sidewalk closures occur between intersections, there will be signs posted at the beginning of the sidewalk to help you get to your destination.

cross at designated crosswalks

It may be tempting to cross the street between intersections but during construction, large equipment, lane closures and traffic shifts are constantly changing which makes it difficult for drivers to spot pedestrians crossing unexpectedly.

relocated bus stops

When roadwork takes place near bus stops, they have to be relocated for your safety. Follow the signs for directions to the nearest temporary bus stops.

VivaNext’s blue signs are created to help guide you around our roadwork. Keep your eyes out for signs placed along the construction corridor to help keep construction zones as safe as possible for everyone.

Safety is a shared responsiblity. Remember to watch your step, keep informed, plan ahead, be alert and stay safe.

 

For information about ongoing vivaNext projects, be sure to subscribe to email updates, and follow us on Twitter. Questions or comments? Comment below or email us at contactus@vivanext.com.

 

 

Categories
Construction Intersections Rapidways Traffic signals Uncategorized

a new phase of rapidway construction means intersections are changing

As rapidway construction on Highway 7 West and Bathurst & Centre progresses, dedicated bus lanes and vivastations are being built in the centre lanes.

This means the way that signalized intersections work is changing – especially if you’re a pedestrian, or a driver turning left or wanting to make a U-turn.

Here’s what to watch for:

Dedicated lefts and U-turns now happen at intersections

Signalized intersections will now have a dedicated left-turn traffic signal. This means that drivers can make left turns or U-turns only when the left-turn signal is illuminated. The protected movement through the intersection makes it safe and efficient to get where you’re going quickly.

To reach driveways mid-block

To get to driveways located mid-block on the other side of the road, drivers will no longer be able to turn left between intersections; instead drivers should make a U-turn at the next signalized intersection.

Making a left at an intersection is safer than cutting across multiple lanes of traffic, and ensures that drivers trying to turn left get their turn, and don’t have to rush through a yellow.

Changes for pedestrians

The new intersections will be wider with more lanes and new traffic signals. At intersections that will have vivastations, pedestrians may cross the road in two stages if unable to get to the other side during the first signal. To assist with two-stage crossing, there will be a pedestrian waiting area in the middle of the crosswalk where pedestrians can stop, push the “walk” button, and wait for the next walk signal to safely cross the second half of the street.

Check out the video, “Rapidway intersections: safe journeys” for safe navigation of the new intersections for pedestrians, cyclists, driver and transit riders.

 

For information about ongoing vivaNext projects, be sure to subscribe to email updates, and follow us on Twitter. Questions or comments? Comment below or email us at contactus@vivanext.com.

Categories
Construction Rapidways Safety

who’s who of winter maintenance

They say it can sometimes take a village to raise a child. Well, the same can be said for winter maintenance in one of our construction zones – we work with local municipalities, cities and towns, and our crews to make the construction zones as safe as possible for pedestrians and drivers.

 

road and sidewalk maintenance

During construction, road and sidewalk maintenance is the responsibility of the construction contractor within the project areas.  But during the winter, the Region and local municipalities are responsible for ensuring the roads and sidewalks are kept clear. Before winter arrives, we ensure every aspect of the construction zones is compatible with the requirements for winter maintenance operations.

This means making sure the snow-clearing equipment can manoeuver through the construction zones, boulevards and platforms.  Our design work and construction staging plans have always had those requirements top of mind, but we walk through the sites with Regional and municipal staff again before winter to identify any little details that might impede their operations.

During winter, we work closely with the constructor to repair potholes, ensure proper signs are installed, organize construction barrels for proper delineation for motorists and pedestrians, etc. We also take steps to ensure traffic moves through the winter, including making travel lanes as straight as possible through the construction zones, and ensure traffic markings are clear.

 

municipal versus regional roads

Did you know there are more than 50 Regional roads in York Region? Regional roads are usually main arterial roadways that connect the nine local municipalities to one another. These roads are operated and maintained by York Region, and each is identified by a numbered Regional road sign. Local roads are operated and maintained by local municipalities.

This means that the Region is responsible for clearing snow from Regional roads. Similarly, Towns are responsible for clearing snow from municipal roads. The Region often has agreements with municipalities, where the Town is responsible for clearing snow from sidewalks on the Regional right of way

 

challenges from Mother Nature

Living in Canada, we all know how cruel Mother Nature can be. The fluctuating temperatures and general unpredictability of weather can sometimes cause havoc on our construction sites.

Our construction zones often suffer from the freeze and thaw of winter, meaning road bumps or potholes can appear (and appear often they do!). Potholes and road bumps often appear due to general wear-and-tear, and not as a sole result of construction. Regardless, crews from the Region and our contractor, are out repairing these road settlements often. Road cuts and temporary asphalt patches are only effective when applied on dry pavement and temperature above 6 °C.

These are just some of the ways we work with our Regional partners and constructor to make the construction zones as safe as possible for pedestrians and drivers. Our crews remain busy with the fluctuating weather, so sign up for electronic construction updates.

Categories
Construction

we’re preparing for spring [despite what groundhogs may say…]

we’re preparing for spring [despite what the groundhog may say…]

The groundhogs seem to be of differing opinions about when spring is coming. Of the big three – Wiarton Willie, Shubenacadie Sam and Punxsutawney Phil – one says winter is over, and two predict six more weeks.

We’re ready for spring to come at vivaNext, with lots of plans afoot to continue the transformation of York Region’s busiest roads to rapidways.

When spring has sprung and the ground has thawed, our crews will be ready to carry out their detailed construction plans.

We carry out construction in all seasons, but there are some things that need warmer temperatures, like road widening, paving and of course, planting! Planters will be installed along Yonge Street in Newmarket this spring. At our newly open Vaughan Metropolitan Centre Station, the planters are ready and waiting for a green touch, soon to be filled with greenery.

We’re paving the way to spring with information, preparing newsletters on our projects, and keeping our Board and local stakeholders updated. Subscribe to sign up for email updates today.

At this time of year, we’re looking forward to ramping up our work. It’s not long now, and whether the groundhogs are right or wrong, we’re ready for spring.

Categories
Construction Rapidways Stations Utilities

viva la winter!

Brr, it’s cold out there, or unseasonably warm, depending on the day. You never know what’s in store. Regardless of the weather, our construction crews continue to expand the Viva rapidway system to improve connections in York Region. The winter season lends itself to certain types of work, especially the kind that happens above ground.

shiny, new canopies

Forget the January blahs! It’s been exciting times on the Bathurst & Centre corridor this past month. The first two vivastation canopies were installed at Bathurst/Hwy 7 Station located on the Bathurst connector road, one for each side of the station. There’s nothing like seeing that crane lift the canopy into place!

The elegant, arched glass canopies evoke traditional European transit infrastructure, transforming the everyday experience of transit into a beautiful one. A third canopy is coming this winter to the vivastation on Bathurst at Atkinson Avenue.

Looking to the west, construction of the first vivastation platform is beginning to take shape at what will be Commerce Street Station on Highway 7 West.

On both Highway 7 West and Bathurst & Centre, road widening and construction of storm sewers, retaining walls and culvert work is underway. Winter is also a great time to relocate hydro lines and install new poles, which is getting close to being completed in this area.

signals, check!

Our Yonge Street projects are not as far along, and the underground utility work they need to do is limited during cold weather. Crews have made some progress on installing underground duct banks and gas mains in Richmond Hill. Traffic signal work, a good above-ground winter activity, and is also underway. In Newmarket, crews are preparing to start work on the east side of Yonge when the weather gets a bit warmer. They’ll be replicating the road widening that was performed on the west side last year.

planning season

Winter is also a great time to make plans, large and small. We’re working together with the TTC on design and engineering for the biggest plan of all – the Yonge Subway Extension. Also, our staff and contractors are carefully planning spring construction schedules for the Viva rapidway projects, coordinating in advance with stakeholders, and procuring contractors for other projects.

Come spring, our crews will be raring to go, full steam ahead. If you’d like to keep on top of what’s going on in your community, we invite you to sign up for updates.

Categories
Commissioning Construction Facilities and terminals Rapidways Stations Technical

the critical role of spiders in building Vaughan Metropolitan Centre Station

Now, before you think we’ve imported some exotic tropical arachnids, what we call “spiders” are actually the stainless steel fittings that hold together the glass pieces on our stations. They’re called spiders due to their shape, and they play a critical role in the architectural and structural design of our stations.

For the new Vaughan Metropolitan Centre [VMC] rapidway station, the main structural support comes from the welded steel superstructure that forms the distinctive curved shape. Over top of that, steel, custom-made spider fittings are bolted to each steel intersection. The spider fittings support the individual glass panels on the station’s sides and skylight.

410 panels of glass

Each triangular-shaped panel of glass is attached by brackets on the legs of the spiders. Because each piece of glass is a unique size and shape, the job of attaching the glass to the spiders is very fiddly. The extra-large 50 by 24 metre VMC canopy has an eye-popping 410 panels, each equally spaced and slightly different due to the station’s curved planes. The tempered glass can’t be cut or drilled on site without shattering, so holes for the brackets were made during the fabrication process.

beautiful precision

We knew if the holes in the glass didn’t line up exactly to the spider brackets, the glass pieces wouldn’t fit. Since glass fabrication is a fairly slow process, we didn’t want to risk having to go back and remake a piece. Rather than making the glass in advance, we installed the spiders, then measured them with a 3-D laser scanner that registered the targets as multiple cloud points; essentially the same process used to make a 3-D model.

The last step was the installation of the glass panels to the station roof, and seeing all this precision and planning come together for beautiful results. Now if you visit the VMC rapidway station, you can take shelter under a strong and stunning glass canopy reminiscent of the great European architectural traditions, right here in York Region.

 

Categories
Commissioning Construction Facilities and terminals Rapidways Safety Stations Technical

beautiful curves of glass

If you’ve ever had to replace a window in your house, you know that working with glass is fiddly, exacting work. It needs to fit perfectly or you’ll get drafts and leaks. Glass has no tolerance for being the wrong shape or size. And dropping a pane from a window: well, that means another trip back to the store.

Now, imagine the challenges of installing the glass on the curves of our new Vaughan Metropolitan Centre [VMC] rapidway station. As you can guess, it was a long, multi-stage process, done with great care and precision.

strength and safety

As with all our vivastations, the VMC glass was laminated and tempered for strength and safety. First the glass was cut into panes, and then it went through a special process to make it extra strong. This way, if it breaks, it crumbles into small granular chunks instead of sharp pieces.

To add more strength and make it even safer, we then laminated the tempered glass by sandwiching two glass sheets together around an interlayer. If the glass is broken, the interlayer holds the small pieces together instead of breaking into many little shards, the same way a car windshield stays together in an accident. The interlayer on the blue skylight glass is actually a different, stronger material than the interlayer used for the clear side glass, since the top skylight needs to support heavier loads from snow and maintenance workers.

creating curves

Fitting flat glass to the curved shape of the station was a challenge, because every surface of the steel roof curved over two dimensions, much like the outside of a ball. The first step was to divide the glass into a series of triangles. Three-sided shapes are easier to work with compared to four-sided shapes, the same way a tripod is more stable on uneven ground compared to a four-legged chair.

But this still left the challenge of fitting flat pieces of glass over a curved frame. The solution here was to adjust the bolts on the corners of the spiders [the stainless steel fittings that hold  the glass pieces onto the frame] so they’re each set at a different height. We knew how high each bolt needed to be from 3D scans, so we adjusted them before we installed the glass. By installing each corner of glass at a slightly different height, we recreated the curves of the tubular steel frame.

intricate jigsaw puzzle

The last step was putting the glass panels in place, one by one. Although they were all triangles, every piece was unique like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle, so to avoid mix-ups they were carefully numbered before they were delivered. Once the glass panels were bolted onto the spiders and the final adjustments made to perfect the curve of the glass, we sealed the gaps with caulking to make the structure weather-tight.

Building this strong and beautiful glass-covered station took precision, but look at the stunning results! This landmark station helps set the architectural stage for future development at the VMC and makes the everyday experience of transit a beautiful one for our customers.