The City reports turtle exclusion fencing has been installed around the Third Crossing bridge project to prevent turtles from nesting in the area, protecting them from being affected by construction and preparatory work there.
“Just as we put up construction fencing to keep people safe, this fencing is being installed to keep turtles safe in their own habitat,” said Mark Van Buren, deputy commissioner, major projects. “Protecting wildlife, habitat and the ecosystem is a key priority for the Third Crossing’s project team.”
Turtles native to the area include Blanding’s Turtle, Snapping Turtles, Painted Turtles, and Northern Map Turtles.
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In addition to the fencing, and throughout the project, visual surveys will be conducted to ensure the fencing is effective and that turtles are protected from construction activities and equipment on the shorelines. Trained environmental professionals will be onsite to assess and address the situation if any turtles encountered in the construction zone. Additionally, the City says all efforts will be made to ensure activities are timed to occur outside the sensitive overwintering and nest season.
The 1.2 km bridge will span the Cataraqui River, connecting the foot of Gore Street in the east to the foot of John Counter Boulevard in the west, and the City reports early work continues to prepare for in-water construction.
Find out more about the Third Crossing at this City website page.
Turtle photo: Wikimedia Commons (cc)
Bridge (artist’s rendition): City of Kingston
