Ontario Construction News staff writer
Repairing the foundation of the Port Credit Library could get final approval from council on Feb. 16 at a cost between $6 million and $8 million.
The library and Port Credit Memorial Park are built on landfill that over time has impacted the stability of the building’s foundation and supports. The building closed to the public June 28, 2021.
City staff presented the following options:
- building a new library at the same location
- relocating to another location in the Lakeshore area
- maintaining the existing 8,200 sq. ft. library by repairing the existing concrete foundation
The final report recommended that the city proceed with the repair option and keep the building in its current location at a cost of approximately $6 million to $8 million.
Construction will include a process first tested in 2016 as a pilot project where helical piles (steel pipes) were installed onto three piers to stabilize the foundation. This was an effective long-term solution and will be used to repair the entire foundation.
This solution involves underpinning the existing structure and installing new steel beams at the perimeter of the building along the base and between each pier.
Helical piles will be drilled into place to a depth of approximately 50 feet or until it hits bedrock. Four to six helical piles will be drilled surrounding each existing caisson and will be designed to take the load of the existing structure, providing structural stability.
Earth surrounding the library will be removed to expose caissons and perform the installation of the helical piles.
Once below grade work is complete, the new foundations will be backfilled and new concrete walkways, paths, stairs and patios will be reinstated in its original locations. Special attention and detail to the perimeter base will be required to encase or conceal steel beams that will protrude from the base of the building.
The foundation repair is expected to extend the building’s life for another 50 years.
“Rehabilitating the foundation is a benefit for everyone. It is the most cost-effective solution, it allows the library to stay in the neighbourhood and it extends the life of the building for many years to come,” said Shari Lichterman, commissioner, corporate services and CFO.
Construction will last 20 to 24 months, with the library expected to reopen in late 2023 or early 2024.