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Idlewood Creek Restoration
The Idlewood Creek Restoration project in Kitchener was a multi-phase initiative carried out across four sites. The goal of the project was to enhance the ecological health of the creek while improving public access and recreational use of the area. The project involved significant infrastructure upgrades, including the removal of outdated dam structures, vehicle crossings and gabion outlet channels, which had previously hindered the natural flow of the creek and contributed to erosion.
A key focus of the restoration was stabilizing the creek banks and enhancing habitat for local wildlife. R&M constructed naturalized woody features, including tree roots and brush, which help prevent future erosion, improve water quality, and create shelter for aquatic species. The restored creek now offers a more resilient and diverse habitat for fish, amphibians, and other aquatic life.
In addition to the ecological improvements, the project included several enhancements to make the area more accessible to the public. An asphalt pathway was constructed along the creek, providing a smooth, durable surface for pedestrians and cyclists. To protect the creek's banks from erosion, armourstone was used to reinforce the shoreline. A new weathered-steel bridge, supported by helical piles, was installed to provide a safe crossing for the public to use.