Starting today, January 9, 2023, there will be periodic lane restrictions and sidewalk closures on Wellington Street from Queens Avenue to the south branch of the Thames River near South Street, while crews complete tree removals required for the Wellington Gateway and Downtown Loop rapid transit projects, which are scheduled to begin construction this spring.
This work will take place during off-peak hours, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., until approximately the end of January 2023.
Drivers travelling northbound and southbound on Wellington Street are advised to expect delays and are encouraged to use alternative routes where possible. Drivers can plan ahead by using navigation apps such as Waze or Google Maps.
Sidewalk access will be maintained on at least one side of Wellington Street at all times. Pedestrians are encouraged to follow signs and use nearby streets to reach their destinations in the area.
Transit riders are advised to visit the LTC website for service updates.
Businesses remain open and accessible during this work.
Renew Link (Downtown Loop Phase 3): https://maps.london.ca/renewlondon?id=49670
Renew Link (Wellington Gateway Phase 1): https://maps.london.ca/renewlondon?id=49671
Above: A map showing the advance tree removal work area on Wellington Street from Queens Avenue to the south branch of the Thames River.
About the advance construction work to be completed
After careful assessment, it was determined that there are trees within the City right of way that are impacted by the Rapid Transit Implementation – Wellington Street project (Downtown Loop Phase 3 and Wellington Gateway Phase 1) and need to be removed. Trees are crucial to our Forest City and a tree protection plan has been established for the remaining trees. New trees will be planted after construction is complete either at the same sites or at suitable locations close by.
The City of London plants approximately 5,000 trees each year to help mitigate the effects of climate change, provide shade and lower temperatures reducing energy costs at homes. Trees also help absorb heavy rainfall and reduce stormwater flows.
Trees to be removed will be marked with white spray paint in advance of their removal.