Item - 2025.IA33.1

Councillor Dianne Saxe, Ward 11, University–Rosedale, has submitted the following Administrative Inquiry:

I am submitting this Administrative Inquiry under Municipal Code section 27-7.11 to seek information regarding road construction delays on Harbord and Hoskin Streets in my Ward, which is an example of systematic issues that require redress.

I am writing to seek information and clarification in particular with regards to oversight by Transportation and Engineering staff, and to express the concerns of my community regarding prolonged and unnecessary road closures and disrepair while communication was weak and contractors were absent.

Construction on Harbord and Hoskin Streets from Ossington to Queens Park Circle began in late summer 2024. Residents received a brief notice that watermains were to be replaced. While watermain replacement was completed and the road reinstated in 2024, the same road was dug up again for reconstruction for most of 2025, including the entire summer.

This meant many months of dust, noise lane restrictions, parking restrictions, and uneven road surfaces. Some of this extended disruption could and should have been avoided. The contractor did not pursue the project with diligence and treated neighbourhood concerns with apparent contempt. Despite numerous interventions by my office, there were repeated gaps when residents and local businesses were severely inconvenienced and some individuals were injured, but no contractors were present and no work was done. For example, weeks passed, for no good reason, between rough concrete being poured and the commencement of paving. Even now the work is not complete.

Poor communication exacerbated the many problems created. This disregard for the welfare of local residents and businesses has infuriated the community, and caused material financial harm to local small businesses. Complete loss of the summer period was particularly harmful to those who depend on outdoor space such as patios.

In these circumstances, I respectfully request the following:

1. Why was the road reconstruction conducted so slowly, in fits and starts that prolonged disruption of the surrounding neighbourhood?

2. What oversight measures which were in place during the project to minimize disruption of the surrounding neighbourhood, and what needs to change to achieve steady progress and swift completion of road reconstruction in each area?

3. What will be done to improve communication with surrounding communities and ensure that problems with such projects are promptly resolved?

I kindly request your prompt attention to this matter and look forward to receiving a detailed response.