Terminal Avenue now fully open following sewer main repairs

Traffic flow and pedestrian access has now been fully restored along the 100 block of Terminal Avenue following an extended closure for sewer main repairs. 

In late June 2024, a sewer main leak was detected on Terminal Avenue between Quebec Street and Main Street. Crews responded immediately to the leak, investigated the issue, and performed interim repairs. This included installing an above-ground sewer bypass system to direct sewage to flow around the damaged section of pipe allowing crews to work on it.

The planning for the repairs was complex as the location of the leak is close to 3rd party infrastructure and is impacted by tidal conditions. The extended closure of Terminal Avenue eastbound was required to investigate the potential causes of the failure and to assess and address any soil stability issues caused by the leaking pipe. Those issues have now been resolved, and geotechnical engineers have confirmed that all eastbound lanes can reopen.

Early investigation results revealed that corrosion to the 26-year-old pipe likely caused the sewage leak. Sewer infrastructure is designed to have a life expectancy of 100 years so the failure was unexpected. Investigations to determine the cause of the corrosion are ongoing and results will help guide the design of permanent repairs. 

The City appreciates residents, businesses and commuters for their patience and cooperation during this critical repair work.

Next steps 

The next phase of the work on Terminal Avenue, expected to begin later this year, will focus on a permanent repair of the damaged sections of pipe. The bypass sewer system will remain in place and operational to support that work until the permanent repairs are complete.