The Project

Toronto Hydro is in the process of replacing, upgrading and revitalizing Toronto’s electricity distribution system in order to ensure reliability for existing customers and increase capacity for a growing city and its dynamic downtown core. The feeder upgrade project for Bloor Street East at Ted Rogers Way will rebuild the century-old chambers that were originally built in 1904 and introduce new chambers and duct banks.

The Challenges

The existing chambers and roofs are falling apart, the primary cables need to be replaced, and the presence of asbestos in the duct banks must also be addressed. The old system must remain energized and the existing infrastructure relocated while the new system is being rebuilt.

DPM’s Role

From predesign site inspections to support during construction, we are providing the following services to our client, Toronto Hydro, for this critical revitalization project:

• Assess existing infrastructure through predesign site inspections

• Create primary schematics for the Contractor and Toronto Hydro

• Create preliminary civil and electrical design

• Create detailed civil and electrical design

• Coordination with surrounding utility providers, such as Bell, TTC, Cogeco, etc…

• Coordination with the City of Toronto for Long Stream Permits

• Coordination with the Contractor and Toronto Hydro to finalize the design

• Coordination with the City of Toronto for Short Stream Permits

• Coordination with the Contractor and Toronto Hydro to finalize the design

• Prepare work order package and drawings for construction

• Provide support during construction

DPM Solution

Once completed, the new underground distribution system, including new manholes, duct structures, underground cables and transformers, will last 20-30 years, providing ample capacity for future growth and development in this busy, bustling Bloor Street neighbourhood.