Construction is set to begin in mid‑July on a project aimed at reducing pollution and improving stormwater management along Bowmanville Creek. The Hetherington Drive Stormwater Outlet Improvement Project will be carried out inside the Bowmanville Valley Conservation Area and includes changes to the outlet built in 1972.
Scope and purpose
The work will add modern stormwater treatment and make repairs intended to boost water quality and ecosystem health. Key elements announced by municipal officials include the installation of a new oil grit separator to remove hydrocarbons, grit and debris, and upgrades to the outlet swale to slow flows and enhance natural filtration before water reaches the creek.
- Funding: $509,118 provided through Ontario’s Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program — Housing‑Enabling Water Systems Fund.
- Watermain: About 20 metres of watermain along Hetherington Drive will be relocated to secure long‑term stability.
- Timeline: Construction is scheduled to start in mid‑July; trail closures will be limited as described below.
Impact on trails, traffic and residents
Municipal officials say they will try to limit disruption to residents and recreational users. The Bowmanville Valley Trail is expected to remain accessible for the majority of the work, with only brief daytime closures for specific activities such as material deliveries or restoration. Total trail closures are not expected to exceed five working days, and the trail will be cleared and reopened at the end of each workday.
Hetherington Drive, east of Lawrence Crescent, may face temporary restrictions to through‑traffic. The municipality has committed to keeping the road available for local traffic, maintaining access to homes except for short periods when work occurs directly in front of a driveway or walkway. Garbage and recycling collection, deliveries and pedestrian access are to continue without interruption.
“Investing in local infrastructure is part of our government’s plan to protect Ontario, drive growth, crea…”
What this means for Bowmanville
Upgrading the 1972 outlet addresses an ageing component of the town’s drainage system and aligns stormwater treatment with contemporary standards. For Bowmanville residents, the improvements are intended to:
- reduce contaminants entering Bowmanville Creek;
- improve resilience of the local water system by relocating a short stretch of watermain; and
- support anticipated community growth by modernizing stormwater infrastructure.
| Item | Figure |
|---|---|
| Provincial contribution | $509,118 |
| Watermain relocation | 20 metres |
| Maximum trail closure | 5 working days |
Details on the project contractor, the full construction schedule and any planned mitigation measures for wildlife or vegetation were not included in the municipality’s release. Residents with concerns about access, timing or environmental effects are advised to consult municipal communications for updates during the work.
The project represents a provincially supported investment in local infrastructure intended to protect waterways while accommodating future development in Bowmanville.
