Continuing our work building resiliency into Toronto’s sewer systems

Basement Flooding Protection Program Phase 5 Implementation

The City of Toronto selected us to provide program management and engineering services for Phase 5 of their Basement Flooding Protection Program (BFPP). The multiyear program is helping reduce the risk of flooding through improvements to the sewer system and overland drainage routes, which can face increased pressure with heavy rainfall.

In this latest phase of the program, we are designing and implementing storm sewer, sanitary sewer, and storage sewer projects to help protect the basements of residents’ homes from major flood impacts. These sewer resiliency solutions will also mitigate the risk of surface flooding within the city.

Building upon the successful delivery of BFPP Phase 3, which concluded in 2021, we’re carrying forward lessons learned for improved efficiency in delivery of the current phase. For example, in Phase 5, our team conducted an early assessment of solutions for anticipated constructability challenges and resident disruption during construction. Through this assessment, we proposed an alternative solution that both reduces environmental impacts and construction disturbance to local residents and businesses. The alternative solution is now being carried forward for design and construction.

Through the program, the City will also benefit from the implementation of other coinciding scheduled repair and maintenance works, such as local road resurfacing and watermain replacement.

Targeting 2030, Phase 5 will further improve Toronto’s resiliency to flooding from heavy rainfall events.