Intersection near Libro Centre to be closed for construction next month

Map of proposed intersection changes ay Simcoe & Meloche.

A tender for $214,203.78 including HST was approved last week for enhancements to the Simcoe St. and Meloche Road intersection.

Work that will be undertaken at the intersection will include all-way stops, new concrete curbs, accessible sidewalks and the implementation of traffic calming measures such as a concrete median.

The intersection will be closed to all traffic Nov. 3-21. It is near the Libro Centre and Simcoe St. is also a main artery for traffic coming in and out of the core of Amherstburg.

While the project exceeds the $200,000 town council budgeted for, town engineering technologist Jesse Daudlin stated in a written report to council that a culvert project resulted in a surplus and a portion of that will cover the overage on the intersection project.

“The construction of the culvert replacement project was completed in 2024 and final payments, including the standard hold back, have been processed such that the project is now ready to be closed financially,” Daudlin stated. “The project will close with a surplus of $187,200.41 of which $52,363 is being recommended to be used to fund the Meloche/Simcoe intersection shortfall and the remainder returned to the General Reserve Fund.”

Amico Infrastructure Inc. was the successful bidder.

Councillor Diane Pouget wanted to know if a flashing light would be added. Manager of engineering Todd Hewitt said there is no provision for one at this time.

Pouget noted there was an “up front” budgeted cost of $200,000 that was approved, also pointing out the overage in the tender results. She added there was another bidder who also was close to the recommended – and subsequently approved – bid.

“Do we have to go with the lowest tender or could we make an exception and go with the next tender?” she asked.

CAO Valerie Critchley stated with respect to the laws of purchasing, once bids are deemed to be compliant, the town has to go with the lowest bidder. If the bidder is in compliance with the terms of the tender, the town would open itself to liability by not accepting it, she said. 

Intersection near Libro Centre to be closed for construction next month

By Ron Giofu