MacLaren & Gilmour

Project Dates: August 2025 to October 2025

Services Provided: Asphalt reconstruction involving courtyard paving replacement and additional site improvements

Client

Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation (CCOC)

Project Type

Asphalt Work, Site Improvements

We were engaged to complete a full asphalt replacement and site improvement project for the housing complex located at the former Percy Street Public School. The work focused on revitalizing the central courtyard and surrounding access areas, ensuring improved function, safety, and long-term durability.

The scope involved removing existing asphalt and localized interlock walkways, completing excavation and regrading to improve groundwater management, and installing new concrete curbs and asphalt surfaces.

In addition to the paving work, the project included several site upgrades:

Metal stair modifications and refinishing
Wooden fence replacements with new concrete sonotube foundations
Concrete pad and stair placements
Localized masonry repairs
Drainage and catch basin improvements
Timber landscape repositioning
Plumbing upgrades and damaged hose bib reinstatements

Project Challenges

The work area was a high-traffic pedestrian courtyard with multiple residential entrances, making uninterrupted access top priority. Many site elements were interconnected, so sequencing had to be exact with no room for cutting or patching after completion. The location of a damaged hose bib was also unknown at the start of the project, requiring careful investigation before restoration. The schedule was also tight, with the project work needing to be completed before seasonal weather changes.

Solutions Implemented

GroupCMG worked closely with the client to develop a detailed, phased construction plan that balanced efficiency, coordination, and tenant needs. By dividing the courtyard and work site into multiple zones, we were able to maintain safe access to all unit entrances throughout the project.

Detailed Scheduling & Communication

Developed a clear sequence of work and issued advance notices to residents, ensuring awareness of upcoming changes and access routes.
Coordinated the schedule carefully to avoid rework and ensure all trades operated in the correct order.

Multidisciplinary Collaboration

Deployed in-house crews and specialized subcontractors to complete varied scopes, including masonry, plumbing, fencing, and finishing.
Employed exploratory work and creative below-grade plumbing solutions to locate and install a new functioning hose bib above the garage podium.

Results

The completed courtyard restoration transformed the shared space into a safer, more attractive, and better-performing environment for residents and visitors. New paving and curbs improved surface drainage and eliminated uneven walking surfaces, reducing long-term maintenance costs and enhancing accessibility. Upgraded fencing, stairs, and landscaping refreshed the site’s overall aesthetic while contributing to structural integrity and safety.