On Sunday afternoon a “quiet” CPKC train travelled southwards upon the Emerson Line through Precinct K South. A smaller train, only a kilometer or so in length, it did not sound its horn either at the Creek Bend Road at-grade crossing or at the Perimeter Highway. This was quite unprecedented.
It is believed that Waterside Development has given the two families who live by the crossing east of the tracks until September 1st to vacate their houses. After that day the area will be depopulated for the next few years.
It is possible that the developers will use the gravel Melnick Road for most initial construction activities. The historic farm fields of Precinct K South are currently fallow and weed covered. Topsoil removal could start at any time. If Gauthier Soils is the purchaser it is a short trip from the remaining Perimeter entrance on Melnick by the tracks to their soil yard in St. Vital Perimeter South.
FUN FACT. It is believed that Qualico also owns the land that Guertin’s soil yard is currently located upon.
If the Precinct K DASZ is approved by the Riel Community Committee this winter at least four storm water retention ponds will be excavated (two wet and two dry ponds.) Pipe will need to be laid connecting the ponds together in a daisy chain through Fraipont, under the railway crossing, across Royalwood’s Smith Farm to an outfall outlet on the Seine River. Smith Farm coulee will not be used for future land drainage. How this change will affect the existing riparian forest within the coulee is unknown.
It is likely that construction access through the urban Creek Bend community will initially be limited. The final construction phase in the areas closer to urban Creek Bend will not begin for another 5 to 6 years.
Meanwhile, watch out for those ghost trains. While they may be silent, they are still deadly.