Work at the intersection of Queen’s Line and Merlin Road is nearly complete, with the intersection set to fully reopen to traffic on Friday, Sept. 26.
The project included construction of a single-lane roundabout, safety improvements along the approaches, and rehabilitation of the Queen’s Line bridge just west of the intersection over Government Drain No. 1. Huron Construction completed the work under a $6-million contract awarded last fall, funded through municipal reserves. About $4 million came from the Capital and Right-Of-Way reserves for the intersection and road work, while $2 million was allocated from the bridge lifecycle reserve.
The new roundabout was recommended following safety studies and is designed to accommodate large vehicles, including transport trucks and farm equipment. It features a mountable curb and concrete apron on the inside, as well as a mountable curb and paved shoulders at the entries and exits to provide extra width for oversized vehicles.
Roundabouts are proven to reduce the frequency and severity of collisions, municipal officials said, because they create fewer conflict points than conventional intersections and encourage lower-speed, angled movements.
Additional work at the site included guiderail replacement, realignment of underground services, grading improvements, new streetlighting, and other road safety measures. The bridge rehabilitation was advanced at the same time to ensure efficiency in cost and coordination.
“The Municipality thanks motorists and residents for their patience during this critical work,” said Marissa Mascaro Amyotte, director of engineering services. “The Contractor, Huron Construction, did an excellent job staging the construction. While the contract allowed for a full closure of the intersection during construction, they successfully staged the work to maintain traffic flow along Queen’s Line throughout the duration of the project to keep traffic moving. We’re pleased with how smoothly the work progressed and appreciate the Contractor’s efforts in delivering a successful outcome.”
Design work is now underway for landscaping and art installation in the roundabout’s centre island, expected to be completed in spring 2026.
More information about ongoing construction projects can be found at www.chatham-kent.ca/constructionprojects.
Details about the municipality’s Road Safety Action Plan, including roundabout safety, are available at www.chatham-kent.ca/services/roads/Pages/Road-Safety-Action-Plan.aspx.
