Effective stormwater management is essential for resilient infrastructure, especially on complex, multi-phase projects. In honour of World Water Day, we’re highlighting our role in the water resources and stormwater management strategies for West Park Healthcare Centre, a transformative healthcare and residential development spanning 11.5 hectares.
A Holistic Approach to Water Management
As part of our civil engineering scope, our team designed a comprehensive stormwater management strategy that prioritizes sustainability. Our design ensures that surface runoff from the site is captured and infiltrated, reducing strain on municipal systems and supporting groundwater recharge.
This approach aligns with the project’s broader commitment to sustainability, integrating infiltration measures and site-relevant LEED® documentation to support responsible water stewardship.
Engineering for Complexity
The project posed unique challenges, as the new healthcare facility was constructed while the existing facility remained fully operational. Our engineers developed detailed site grading plans, servicing plans, and erosion and sediment control measures across seven phases of development, ensuring seamless transitions at every stage.
To adapt to site evolution during construction, WalterFedy updated the stormwater management strategy when it was decided to retain an existing building, adding 190 care beds. This required rapid redesign and preparation of Site Plan Amendment documents, ensuring compliance with the original stormwater criteria for all storm events up to a 25-year storm event.
Overcoming Infrastructure Challenges
- Aging Infrastructure: Many water distribution system valves were inoperable, requiring strategic shutdowns and tie-ins while maintaining service to the campus.
- Watermain Vulnerabilities: The site’s 50-year-old ductile iron watermain infrastructure was prone to failure due to vibrations from construction, leading to unexpected repairs and replacements.
- Stormwater Infiltration & Slope Stability: Located adjacent to the Humber River ravine, the site required a detailed slope stability assessment to ensure safe infiltration. Our design incorporated measures to regulate the release rate into native soils, preventing instability in the ravine slope.
Our Commitment to Sustainable Water Solutions
WalterFedy continues to provide construction inspection services throughout the project, ensuring quality execution of our sustainable water management solutions.
As we celebrate World Water Day, we recognize the importance of forward-thinking design in protecting and preserving our water resources.