By Lyonel Doherty
Oliver Chronicle
Without a doubt, the Station Street upgrade project in Oliver has been one of the most challenging for Grizzly Excavating.
“It has been really an uphill battle,” said project manager Dave Spear, referring to the high water levels that crews have had to contend with.
“We’re definitely behind schedule,” Spear said, noting the project was initially slated for completion by May 15.
Now he is anticipating June 15 as the completion date, adding they expect to have Fairview Road paved by the end of the month.
“It comes down to the high water table,” Spear said, pointing a finger at Mother Nature.
Crews ran into trouble on Fairview Road, where it took over a month to advance 100 metres, Spear said.
Grizzly Excavating had to utilize a dewatering system to address all that water in the ground where it was working. This included two, six-inch suction pipes and other pumping apparatus in an attempt to keep up. But some days that didn’t work.
“My guys can tell you in 10 minutes if they (controllers) have let more water down the channel.”
The high water table had Grizzly Excavating delay the end of the construction on Fairview and Station Street. (Lyonel Doherty photo)
Spear said crews were really picking up steam on Station Street this morning (Wednesday), but there was so much water in the storm drain that a geyser erupted on the street.
The manager said work continues installing a sanitary line, water and storm drains on Station Street. Electrical and telephone lines are also on the installation list.
“The crews are working constantly trying to do everything. When workers are 12 feet down, it’s slow going,” Spear said.
As they near the home stretch, he is giving kudos to the flag personnel who look after traffic flows. “My hat is off to them.”
Despite the delay and congestion, Spear hasn’t heard too many negative comments from local residents. In fact, most of the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, he said.
