Material change proposed in Grand Trunk Trail staircase project

By Spencer Seymour, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The staircase connecting the Grand Trunk Trail to the flats and the status of its revitalization was the subject of a lengthy discussion at last Wednesday’s Green Committee meeting.
Brought in to discuss the staircase project and answer questions from members of the committee was Asset Management and Engineering Specialist, Jeff Wolfe. The rebuilding of the staircase has been on the town’s radar for much of 2020 as it has been deteriorating significantly over the last several years. The last update regarding the project came back in May when Jed Kelly of St. Marys Public Works advised the municipality that the budget for the reconstruction was higher than initially anticipated and that they wanted to begin the design process so that they could jump right into the actual rebuilding efforts in 2021.
Last Wednesday saw Wolfe address the subsequent events following the advisement to council that the project’s budget would be greater than initially expected. Wolfe said that two main issues arose from the modified building plan that needed to be addressed before the design process could begin. These were in regards to the condition of the staircase and its usability until the reconstruction can be completed next year; and considerations of how to possibly reduce the estimated $160,000 price tag of the project.
According to Wolfe, an engineer reviewed the current condition of the staircase and determined that it wasn’t necessary for the town to close the staircase until it is rebuilt. He did note, however, that staff will continue to monitor the staircase and wall’s condition and if sections of the wall become 15 percent off-plumb, the town will have to look at blocking off those sections of the staircase. The width of the staircase would allow for portions not connected to the wall to remain accessible should it become required to cordon off some areas, and the path adjacent to the staircase would also be unaffected.
Turning the committee’s attention to the issue of cost, Wolfe first touched on the notion of changing the project into a Community Project. While no commitments were sought out, Wolfe noted an apparent interest from community groups in helping to fund the staircase redevelopment. The changed designation also would require more involvement in the town in overseeing health and safety practices but would reduce the cost of the project as those managerial duties would otherwise be handled by a general contractor.
The material out of which the staircase would be remade was also suggested as a potential cost-saving measure. The plan initially was for steel to be used, however, Wolfe proposed changing to pressure-treated wood. The labour and material cost for the steel staircase would be market price, however, the town will be able to work with local contractors and businesses on a wooden staircase. Additionally, although the life cycle of a steel staircase is longer than its wood alternative, the town will be able to complete most general maintenance on a wooden staircase. The committee agreed the wood structure would also be more aesthetically pleasing.