The example photo provided…

The example photo provided in the executive summary is not representative of the terrain that is present in the two proposed pilot sections. The localized terrain contains several rock cuts in both pilot sections.

Similar to other cross-sections detailed in the TAC manuals, the Ministry should consider providing a typical section detailing the minimum median widths, lane widths, shoulder widths and rounding widths. While the above widths are discussed in the design parameters, there is no mention of fore-slope parameters, back-slope parameters as well as any rock cut clear zone requirements for the 2+1 cross-section.

The rock excavation work alone will span an entire construction season. Based on the quantity and scope of rock removal required, the Ministry should consider establishing the cross-section from median to the extent of clear zone expeditiously as part of preliminary design and engage in pre-construction advance grading works to remove the rock cuts to the designed clear zone selected.

This would also allow time for re-use of the excavated rock cuts. The blasted rock material excavated from rock cuts sourced within the MTO ROW can be hauled to nearby Ministry aggregate sources to supply recycled aggregates (Granular B-Type II, rock fill, hot mix aggregates) for use to construct the extensive widening that will be required for the 2+1 pilot project. Recycling this Ministry owned material is critical to reduce the construction costs associated with the rock removal required to construct the 2+1 pilot project.