August 2026 construction update
Work on the next phase of the project began with excavation and launch shaft construction at the intersection of Thornwood Road and Rowanwood Avenue.
Crew mobilization began in mid-August. At this time, barricades were installed at the intersection of Thornwood Road and Rowanwood Avenue, restricting access to Thornwood Road from Rowanwood Avenue until launch shaft construction is finished.
On-street parking will be temporarily removed along nearby streets to accommodate large construction vehicles. Residents with City-issued parking permits will be temporarily accommodated on adjacent streets, and detailed notices outlining restricted zones and alternate parking arrangements will be delivered at least one week in advance.
As launch shaft construction progresses, additional crews will mobilize to begin work on the reception shaft near Yonge Street and Rowanwood Avenue. This work will roll out over the coming weeks and months, and further updates will be shared with the community as schedules are finalized.
Background
In February 2025, the City started work to replace the 100-year-old transmission watermain along Rowanwood Avenue, Thornwood Road, Chestnut Park and Roxborough Street. Replacement of the transmission watermain is needed to maintain a reliable supply of water to the area and to meet future water supply demands.
In May 2025, work on the Macpherson Avenue reception shaft was paused due to unexpected underground conflicts that would have significantly expanded the work zone.
Following an extensive review of options, a new location for the reception shaft was found. Construction resumed and is expected to continue to November 2027. Construction will require a full closure of Rowanwood Avenue, east of Yonge Street.
The new shaft will be located five meters east of the Yonge Street and Rowanwood Avenue intersection. Construction is required to carry out utility relocation work, shaft construction, tunneling and watermain construction at this location. Access to Rowanwood Avenue and streets to the north will be maintained via Roxborough Street East and Chestnut Park.
To view the City’s expected timelines please see the construction update notice.
