By Robin MacLennan
Ontario Construction Report staff writer
Construction is underway on a $22 million stormwater pumping station at St. Rose Beach Park in Windsor, as the city continues making major investments to modernize infrastructure and increase flood protection.
The contractor is North American Construction.
The new facility will be located primarily below grade in the eastern portion of the park and will include an above-ground electrical building and a fully enclosed emergency backup generator to minimize noise impacts on the surrounding residential area. Construction began in the latter half of 2024 and is expected to wrap up by fall 2026.
“This is another major step forward in building Windsor’s flood-resilient future,” said Mayor Drew Dilkens. “Investments like the St. Rose pumping station demonstrate our commitment to protecting homes and businesses and keeping pace with Windsor’s growth.”
Designed to reduce flooding risk for more than 1,100 homes and businesses in the Riverside area, the project is a key component of the city’s multi-phase Sewer Master Plan (SMP), which addresses aging infrastructure and prepares Windsor for the effects of increasingly severe weather.
“This project will go a long way toward protecting our community against flooding,” said Ward 6 Councillor Jo-Anne Gignac. “It’s about more than infrastructure—it’s about safeguarding the future of our neighborhoods.”
The pumping station project is directly linked to Windsor’s updated stormwater financing model, which came into effect in early 2025. The new structure separates stormwater and wastewater charges to more fairly distribute costs based on property usage. While most residents were expected to see savings, concerns have arisen among some customers—particularly those on septic systems—who reported higher bills.
In response, Mayor Dilkens has asked City administration to review the program’s impact and propose adjustments. A detailed report will be presented at the April 28, 2025 City Council meeting, outlining proposed measures to address billing issues and fulfill the original promise of cost reductions for the majority of residents.
Proposed changes include billing credits for low-usage customers, phased implementation for septic system users, and adjustments for places of worship and non-residential properties.
“We committed to a fair system and to savings for 99% of homeowners,” said Dilkens. “That’s the goal, and we’re going to make this right.”
Sewer Master Plan (SMP) progress
The St. Rose station is among several major infrastructure projects currently underway across Windsor as part of the SMP. Other active projects include:
- Jefferson Drainage Area Improvements
- Lauzon Parkway Sewer and Road Rehabilitation
- Prince Road Storm Relief System
- Paul Pumping Station
- Maintenance Hole Sealing Program
Completed work includes projects along Matthew Brady, Belle Isle View, Tranby Avenue, and Dominion Boulevard, along with backflow prevention upgrades.
In 2025, the city expects to invest $62.7 million in sewer and stormwater infrastructure—part of a 10-year, $2.24 billion capital plan to support Windsor’s growth and climate resilience.