Ontario Construction News staff writer
PARIS – A major phase of the multi-year “Downtown Dig” infrastructure project is set to begin this week, as crews move back into the core of downtown Paris to continue replacing aging underground services and rebuilding key streets.
Work is scheduled to start April 8, weather permitting, marking the latest stage of a long-term effort by the County of Brant to modernize critical infrastructure and revitalize the downtown.
The project involves the full reconstruction of water mains, sanitary and storm sewers, along with upgrades to utilities, roads and sidewalks. Streetscape improvements, including lighting, trees and pedestrian features, are also part of the plan.
Navacon Construction Inc. is serving as the lead contractor on the project, overseeing the phased infrastructure replacement and surface reconstruction work.
This year’s construction will focus primarily on Grand River Street North, between Mechanic and Charlotte streets, as well as the William Street intersection. The work is expected to continue through late summer or early fall.
The Downtown Dig is being carried out in phases over several years, with earlier work completed along West River Street in 2024 and 2025. Future phases are expected to extend construction to additional downtown streets through the latter part of the decade.
Municipal officials have described the project as a rare, large-scale rebuild of infrastructure that typically only occurs once every several decades.
While the upgrades are intended to support long-term growth, accessibility and economic activity in the downtown, the construction is expected to cause disruptions in the short term. Road closures, detours and limited vehicle access are anticipated throughout the construction zone.
To help maintain foot traffic to local businesses, plans include pedestrian access routes and the creation of a temporary promenade through the downtown core.
The Downtown Dig is one of the largest infrastructure projects currently underway in the County of Brant and is aimed at preparing the community’s core for future development while addressing aging systems beneath the surface.
