By Tyler Waugh / Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
There is an end in sight to the disruption caused by an ongoing lane closure on Commonwealth Avenue. Mount Pearl Mayor Dave Aker, however, believes the City is entitled to compensation.
“Bell owes us,” Aker told council during its June 23 round table discussion. “I think after all they put us through, and our residents in that neighborhood, in terms of the roadway being shut down since December of 2025.”
Re-opening of a 140-metre section of the southbound curbside lane between the Whiteley Drive intersections was delayed for several months due to ongoing engineering challenges and road structure concerns stemming from the initial repair of an underground concrete chamber conducted by Bell Aliant.
Public Works Director Scott Batt told council he’s optimistic that ‘we’re in the end game’ after a communication with Bell, which stated work would begin that week and the lane is now projected to reopen July 27.
“So, a lot of work to happen between now and then but feeling optimistic that this time we’re going to see it through,” Batt said.
Aker said the City should ask Bell for a contribution to one of the municipal parks and indicated he will be drafting a letter for council’s consideration before sending it to the CEO of Bell.