The Thirteenth Street reconstruction and slope stabilization was undertaken by the Town of Lincoln in Ontario to address embankment failures caused by a significant rainfall event in 2014. CIMA+ experts provided detailed design and construction administration services for two compromised sites along Thirteenth Street. The high-level objectives of the project included restoring full road access, stabilizing embankments, improving stormwater management and ensuring environmental sustainability. The project also aimed to enhance roadway geometry and safety by aligning the infrastructure with current municipal standards.
Green infrastructure for long-term stability
Through an environmentally sensitive approach, the team incorporated innovative features such as a vegetated mechanically stabilized earth wall at the south site and a naturalized pond at the north site, which utilized on-site excavated material to reduce environmental impacts and costs. The earth wall was integrated into the south site design to stabilize the steep embankment while minimizing environmental impacts. The vegetated face reduced the need for extensive tree and shrub removal and created a naturalized slope treatment. This solution not only enhanced aesthetic and ecological value but also decreased long-term maintenance requirements as compared to traditional retaining-wall systems.
Sustainable stormwater management through naturalized pond design
Using excavated material from the project area, a 5,580 m³ naturalized pond was constructed at the north site to preserve valued landscape features, including mature willow trees. The pond design eliminated the need for imported fill, thereby reducing the project’s carbon footprint. This innovative cut-and-fill approach supports stormwater management, minimizes environmental disruption and enhances ecological value. It also contributed to the project’s early completion and cost savings.
Award-winning collaboration and eco-friendly project delivery
CIMA+ collaborated closely with stakeholders and the community throughout the project, ensuring public support and minimizing disruption. Full-time field inspection, effective communication and proactive construction management enabled the project to be completed ahead of schedule and under budget. For its achievements in sustainable engineering, safety, and community engagement, the project received a 2020 Ontario Public Works Association (OPWA) Project of the Year Award in the Transportation category.