Downtown Paris Master Plan: The Downtown Dig

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Big changes came to Paris in 2025 with the Downtown Dig! This once-in-a-lifetime project replaced essential infrastructure.

Reconstruction includes NEW:

  • Infrastructure (water, sewers) and upgraded utilities (gas, electrical etc.) under the roads
  • Road construction
  • Sidewalks (widened)
  • Streetscape such as lamp posts, benches, trees
  • Accessibility features
  • Digital features
  • Climate resiliency

The downtown angled parking was converted to parallel parking. The Downtown Paris Master Plan included a parking structure in the municipal lot by Council Chambers. This plan is being

Scroll down to learn more about the project, stay up-to-date with the project's news feed including ways to engage and more!

Big changes came to Paris in 2025 with the Downtown Dig! This once-in-a-lifetime project replaced essential infrastructure.

Reconstruction includes NEW:

  • Infrastructure (water, sewers) and upgraded utilities (gas, electrical etc.) under the roads
  • Road construction
  • Sidewalks (widened)
  • Streetscape such as lamp posts, benches, trees
  • Accessibility features
  • Digital features
  • Climate resiliency

The downtown angled parking was converted to parallel parking. The Downtown Paris Master Plan included a parking structure in the municipal lot by Council Chambers. This plan is being re-formulated.

While construction is challenging for residents and businesses, the end result is a more vibrant, accessible and functional downtown Paris for decades to come. Together, we can keep our community strong. Remember to Shop Local and support our downtown businesses throughout the transformation!

Background

In 2025, downtown Paris on Grand River Street North (between the Nith River Bridge and William Street) underwent major reconstruction. This level of construction in a downtown occurs every 75-100 years. It included replacing critical major infrastructure which ensures the longevity of the thriving downtown for decades to come. The final result is beautiful, functional and accessible for all.

In 2026, the remaining work for the downtown on Grand River Street North will be completed. This will include finishing concrete and brick work, hydro servicing and adding the finishing touches such as new benches. The Grand River Street North and William Street intersection will also be fully re-constructed. Updates will be provided to the community in spring 2026 about detours and traffic impacts.

The Downtown Dig impact and timelines:

  • 2024, 2025: West River Street (Mechanic Street to Broadway Street West)
  • 2025, 2026: Grand River Street North (between the Nith River Bridge and north of William Street)
  • 2027-2029: Mechanic Street (between Grand River Street North to West River Street) - full underground replacement and street scaping
  • 2027-2029: Broadway Street West (between Mechanic Street to William Street)
  • 2027-2029: William Street (between Broadway Street to Grand River Street North)
  • Municipal parking structure to be determined (future update pending)

For more information on The Downtown Dig, we also invite you to visit brant.ca/TheDowntownDig.

FAQs

We have included a list of other frequently asked questions to help answer some questions you may have about the project.

Support for businesses

The County of Brant is committed to working closely with downtown businesses before and during the construction. The Downtown Paris BIA Management Board has voiced their support for the downtown revitalization noting it may be a challenging business year but the lasting result will be worth it to ensure a thriving downtown for the future. The County of Brant and Downtown Paris BIA will encourage residents to “Shop Local” and support the downtown businesses. Several events will be planned to engage the community and businesses during the construction.

Businesses are invited to learn more about this project and provide feedback through the Business Downtown Dig Engage page.

Stay informed

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  • Downtown Paris Master Plan Progress Update Endorsed by Council

    The Downtown Paris Master Plan continues to move forward.

    On June 23, County of Brant Council endorsed the Downtown Paris Master Plan Progress Update. The report highlights the work completed to date, progress made on implementing the Master Plan, and the next steps as the project continues.

    The Downtown Paris Master Plan was adopted in 2019 following extensive public and stakeholder consultation. Its vision is to create a vibrant, inclusive, and accessible downtown while preserving the unique historic character that makes Downtown Paris special.

    You can review the Downtown Paris Master Plan Progress Update at brant.ca/plans.

    As implementation of the plan continues, additional public engagement opportunities are anticipated in the future. To stay informed about future public engagement opportunities for this project and others across the County of Brant, please subscribe to the County's community engagement platform at EngageBrant.ca/register.

    Thank you for continuing to follow the progress of this project and for helping shape the future of Downtown Paris.

    The Downtown Paris Master Plan continues to move forward.

    On June 23, County of Brant Council endorsed the Downtown Paris Master Plan Progress Update. The report highlights the work completed to date, progress made on implementing the Master Plan, and the next steps as the project continues.

    The Downtown Paris Master Plan was adopted in 2019 following extensive public and stakeholder consultation. Its vision is to create a vibrant, inclusive, and accessible downtown while preserving the unique historic character that makes Downtown Paris special.

    You can review the Downtown Paris Master Plan Progress Update at brant.ca/plans.

    As implementation of the plan continues, additional public engagement opportunities are anticipated in the future. To stay informed about future public engagement opportunities for this project and others across the County of Brant, please subscribe to the County's community engagement platform at EngageBrant.ca/register.

    Thank you for continuing to follow the progress of this project and for helping shape the future of Downtown Paris.

  • July Update

    The Downtown Dig enters the fourth month of the 2026 construction season. And progress is happening!

    Recent progress (since June 26, 2026)

    • Utility Relocation: The Bell Canada manhole rebuild is complete, while hydro installation has commenced on William St., west of the intersection.
    • Drainage and Siphon Systems: The East Siphon chamber installation has started. Additionally, the storm sewer running east/west through the intersection is fully installed.
    • Watermains: Watermain installation is ongoing, with night construction operations underway and expected to wrap up shortly.
    • Site Preparation: Phase One (work started in 2025) cleanup has been completed to clear the work zone and

    The Downtown Dig enters the fourth month of the 2026 construction season. And progress is happening!

    Recent progress (since June 26, 2026)

    • Utility Relocation: The Bell Canada manhole rebuild is complete, while hydro installation has commenced on William St., west of the intersection.
    • Drainage and Siphon Systems: The East Siphon chamber installation has started. Additionally, the storm sewer running east/west through the intersection is fully installed.
    • Watermains: Watermain installation is ongoing, with night construction operations underway and expected to wrap up shortly.
    • Site Preparation: Phase One (work started in 2025) cleanup has been completed to clear the work zone and prepare for the temporary downtown promenade.


    Planned Schedule (Next 2 Weeks)

    • Sanitary Main: Downstream siphon chamber structure work will continue. Crews will advance connection efforts to the outlet structure, alongside sanitary services and basement-level installations.
    • Watermains: Watermain commissioning is scheduled to begin. This phase will move into active disinfection, testing, and making final system connections.
    • Storm Sewers: Ongoing storm sewer installation will continue across the site. Additionally, a new segment of storm sewer installation will commence north of William Street
    • Electrical and Utilities: Hydro installation remains ongoing. Work will also kick off on the installation of streetlight conduits and wiring.


    Downtown Promenade

    The Downtown Promenade is open to pedestrians! Shop, eat, chat, play, hang around!

    Upcoming Downtown Paris Events

    • Paris Street Market (July 11): Hosted by The Rustic Palm, this market is a prime spot to shop for local vendors.
    • Historical Commemoration: Special activities will mark the 150th anniversary of the World's First Long-Distance Telephone Call, a historic milestone made by Alexander Graham Bell.
    • Community Activation: Visitors can enjoy live music, wellness sessions, and a lively "Adult Recess."
    • Walking Tours: The free We Dig Paris Walking Tours are running throughout the summer, exploring local gems, the Wincey Mill Market, and river view


    Stay informed

    Thank you for your continued patience and support.

  • Project update: June 12, 2026

    The project is moving steadily through deep utility installations while simultaneously wrapping up aesthetic and surface elements started in Phase 1 (work that began in 2025).

    Underground Infrastructure Progress

    • Sanitary System: The main sanitary pipe, structures, and by-pass system are fully installed.
    • Watermains: A temporary watermain is successfully active east of the William Street bridge.
    • Utility Preparation: Crews completed utility exploration and temporary relocations at the Grand River St. N. and William St. intersection to allow for the deep infrastructure work.

    Electrical Upgrades

    • The new hydro vault at Cobblestone Commons is officially installed and awaiting power.

    Phase 1 Beautification and

    The project is moving steadily through deep utility installations while simultaneously wrapping up aesthetic and surface elements started in Phase 1 (work that began in 2025).

    Underground Infrastructure Progress

    • Sanitary System: The main sanitary pipe, structures, and by-pass system are fully installed.
    • Watermains: A temporary watermain is successfully active east of the William Street bridge.
    • Utility Preparation: Crews completed utility exploration and temporary relocations at the Grand River St. N. and William St. intersection to allow for the deep infrastructure work.

    Electrical Upgrades

    • The new hydro vault at Cobblestone Commons is officially installed and awaiting power.

    Phase 1 Beautification and Surface Work

    • Greenery: Hanging flower baskets are now displayed across Phase 1.
    • Streetscape: All concrete planter boxes are installed or adjusted for Phase 1.
    • Planting Prep: Soil cells are currently being prepared for topsoil placement and upcoming planting.
    • Restoration: General surface restoration work remains ongoing.

    What’s Next: Upcoming Work Focus

    Construction will now shift toward connecting individual properties to the new systems and launching major storm management installations.

    Power and Utilities

    • Cobblestone Commons: The newly installed hydro vault will be energized to power up the zone.

    Deep Utility Connections and Drainage

    • Basement Connections: Crews will begin installing sanitary services and connecting them directly to downtown basements.
    • Siphon Chamber: Structural work will continue on the downstream siphon chamber.
    • Storm Network: Installation of the primary storm main is scheduled to commence.

    Surface Finishes

    • Restoration: Surface restoration efforts will continue actively within Phase 1 to bring the streetscape to its final look.

    To help support downtown businesses during construction, we are excited to launch several summer initiatives including Tasty Road Trips Free “We Dig Paris” Walking Tours and the upcoming Paris Promenade. Residents and visitors are encouraged to learn more about these, and other activities taking place this summer by visiting brant.ca/DowntownDig and following the Downtown Dig on Facebook and Instagram.

    This project is addressing the replacement of critical underground infrastructure like sanitary sewers, watermains, storm sewers, and utilities. It includes new streetscape, accessibility features, enhanced pedestrian areas and a redesigned street to calm traffic.

    We know construction is messy, and the detours can be challenging. We truly appreciate your patience as we move this project forward as efficiently as possible. We will keep you informed every step of the way.

    Stay informed

    • Do you want updates sent directly to your inbox? Subscribe to this page by adding your email address to the 'Stay Informed' box on this page
    • Visit brant.ca/DowntownDig for additional information including detour maps, upcoming events and promotions, and more
    • Follow the Downtown Dig on Facebook and Instagram

    Thank you for your continued patience and support.

  • Sanitary Structure Installation - William Street at Grand River Street North

    Where: William Street at Grand River Street North, Paris

    When: Thursday, May 21, between 5:00 am - 9:00 pm

    Note: Time duration is tentative and subject to change based on existing site and weather conditions

    Why: Extended construction hours are required to complete the installation due to complex underground conditions encountered on site. Complex work will include, but not limited to, management of high sewage volume flow and rock excavation.

    Details and What to Expect:

    • Residents will experience construction noise from heavy equipment and construction activities during early morning and evening hours. Contractor will make every reasonable effort to minimize

    Where: William Street at Grand River Street North, Paris

    When: Thursday, May 21, between 5:00 am - 9:00 pm

    Note: Time duration is tentative and subject to change based on existing site and weather conditions

    Why: Extended construction hours are required to complete the installation due to complex underground conditions encountered on site. Complex work will include, but not limited to, management of high sewage volume flow and rock excavation.

    Details and What to Expect:

    • Residents will experience construction noise from heavy equipment and construction activities during early morning and evening hours. Contractor will make every reasonable effort to minimize noise impacts while completing the work outside regular noise by-law hours.
    • Additional time may be required due to unforeseen underground conditions encountered during the work. Should work extend beyond the anticipated hours, updated public notification will be provided.

    Contractor: Navacon Construction Inc. for County of Brant

    Stay informed

    • Do you want updates sent directly to your inbox? Subscribe to this page by adding your email address to the 'Stay Informed' box on this page
    • refer to municipal511.ca for the most up-to-date information regarding road construction and closures
    • Visit brant.ca/DowntownDig for additional information including detour maps, upcoming events and promotions, and more
    • Follow the Downtown Dig on Facebook and Instagram

    Thank you for your continued patience and support.

  • Project update: May 15, 2026

    supporting image

    Construction in Downtown Paris continues. Thank you to everyone who has continued to show incredible community support to local businesses.

    Impacted areas

    • Grand River Street North (from south of Charlotte St to Mechanic St)
    • William Street (from the east side of the bridge to west of the Grand River St N intersection)

    Work Completed (April 30 – May 13)

    • Rogers and Bell: Utility relocation at Grand River St N and William St intersection is complete
    • Installation of temporary watermain on the east of William St bridge is complete
    • Sanitary by-pass is complete
    • Sanitary main installation on the west side of

    Construction in Downtown Paris continues. Thank you to everyone who has continued to show incredible community support to local businesses.

    Impacted areas

    • Grand River Street North (from south of Charlotte St to Mechanic St)
    • William Street (from the east side of the bridge to west of the Grand River St N intersection)

    Work Completed (April 30 – May 13)

    • Rogers and Bell: Utility relocation at Grand River St N and William St intersection is complete
    • Installation of temporary watermain on the east of William St bridge is complete
    • Sanitary by-pass is complete
    • Sanitary main installation on the west side of William St bridge has commenced
    • Planter box adjustment on west side has commenced
    • Streetlights are equipped with brackets for flower baskets
    • See a birds-eye view of progress so far

    Upcoming work

    • Sanitary main installation on the west side of William St bridge continues
    • Sanitary siphon and cleaning to commence
    • Planter box adjustment on west side of Grand River St N continues
    • Planter box installation on east side of Grand River St N to commence
    • Hydro vault at Cobblestone Commons to commence


    Downtown Paris Promenade

    Once the section on Grand River St N (Mechanic St to William St) is complete, the new temporary Paris Promenade will be constructed this summer to ensure a vibrant, pedestrian experience while construction continues in the intersection.

    This project is a “once in a lifetime” project with replacement of underground infrastructure like sanitary sewers, watermains, storm sewers, and utilities. It includes new streetscape, accessibility features, enhanced pedestrian areas and a redesigned street to calm traffic. This phase of downtown construction is expected to be completed in late summer/early fall 2026. We will keep you informed as timelines can shift with these large complex projects.

    We know construction is messy, and the detours can be challenging. We truly appreciate your patience as we move this project forward as efficiently as possible. We will keep you informed every step of the way.

    Stay informed

    • Do you want updates sent directly to your inbox? Subscribe to this page by adding your email address to the 'Stay Informed' box on this page
    • Visit brant.ca/DowntownDig for additional information including detour maps, upcoming events and promotions, and more
    • Follow the Downtown Dig on Facebook and Instagram

    Thank you for your continued patience and support.

  • Project update - May 1, 2026

    Construction in Downtown Paris is underway, with this phase expected to be completed in late summer to early fall 2026.

    Impacted areas include:

    • Grand River Street North (from south of Charlotte St to Mechanic St)
    • William Street (from the east side of the bridge to west of the Grand River St N intersection)

    Work Completed (April 15 – 29)

    • Utility exploration began in the intersection of Grand River St N and William St
    • Brick work has resumed on the west side
    • Removals on east side of William St bridge began
    • Hydro: tap boxes adjustment began

    Upcoming work

    Construction in Downtown Paris is underway, with this phase expected to be completed in late summer to early fall 2026.

    Impacted areas include:

    • Grand River Street North (from south of Charlotte St to Mechanic St)
    • William Street (from the east side of the bridge to west of the Grand River St N intersection)

    Work Completed (April 15 – 29)

    • Utility exploration began in the intersection of Grand River St N and William St
    • Brick work has resumed on the west side
    • Removals on east side of William St bridge began
    • Hydro: tap boxes adjustment began

    Upcoming work

    • Rogers and Bell utility relocations at the Grand River St N and William St intersection
    • Sanitary Main: sanitary by-pass to begin and will be followed by underground pipe installation starting at the west side of the William St bridge.
    • Installation of temporary watermain east of William St bridge

    Detours and Temporary Traffic Changes

    Following a review, the left-turn restriction at the intersection of King Edward St and Dumfries St has been removed, and traffic has returned to its pre-detour configuration.

    Detour routes continue to be actively monitored, and adjustments will be made as needed to improve traffic flow and safety.

    Downtown Paris Promenade

    Once the section on Grand River St N (Mechanic St to William St) is complete, the new temporary Paris Promenade will be constructed to ensure a vibrant, pedestrian experience while construction continues in the intersection. More details will be shared soon!

    Downtown businesses are open and need your support!

    Thank you for continuing to shop local and support your neighbours during this construction season. We know it’s messy, and the detours can be challenging, but we truly appreciate your patience as we work to move this project forward as efficiently as possible while keeping you informed every step of the way.

    Stay informed

    Thank you for your continued patience and support.

  • Project update - April 17, 2026

    supporting image

    Construction for the 2026 season is officially underway. Work began on April 8, and this phase is expected to continue through late summer/early fall.

    What’s happening now

    • Road closures are in place and the construction zone is fully set up
    • Asphalt removal is complete
    • Storm main installation has begun

    What’s next

    • Sanitary main installation
    • Temporary watermain installation near the William St bridge

    Road Closures reminder

    • Grand River St N (south of Charlotte St to Mechanic St)
    • William St (bridge to west of Grand River St N)
    • Grand River St N & William St intersection

    Detour routes are being actively monitored

    Construction for the 2026 season is officially underway. Work began on April 8, and this phase is expected to continue through late summer/early fall.

    What’s happening now

    • Road closures are in place and the construction zone is fully set up
    • Asphalt removal is complete
    • Storm main installation has begun

    What’s next

    • Sanitary main installation
    • Temporary watermain installation near the William St bridge

    Road Closures reminder

    • Grand River St N (south of Charlotte St to Mechanic St)
    • William St (bridge to west of Grand River St N)
    • Grand River St N & William St intersection

    Detour routes are being actively monitored, and adjustments will be made as needed to improve traffic flow and safety.

    Recent roadway changes include

    • New temporary 3-way stop at Emily St & Broadway St W
    • Broadway St E is now one-way northbound
    • Charlotte St is now one-way eastbound
    • Emily St is now one-way westbound

    Important reminders

    • Local traffic only in key areas
    • No through truck traffic (please use the Paris West Bypass)
    • Pedestrian access is maintained

    Once work between Mechanic St and William St is complete, construction of the new promenade will begin, helping create a more vibrant, pedestrian-friendly downtown! Stay tuned for updates coming soon!

    Support Local

    Our downtown businesses are open! Please continue to shop, dine, and explore local.

    Stay informed

    Thank you for your continued patience and support.

  • Fire Service coverage during the Downtown Dig

    The County of Brant would like to inform residents of temporary operational changes to fire services in Paris to ensure continued response efficiency during the Downtown Dig construction project.

    “We are committed to maintaining the highest level of emergency service for our residents,” said Fire Chief Darren Watson. “These operational changes ensure that, despite construction impacts, our teams can respond quickly and effectively whenever and wherever they are needed."

    Effective Wednesday, April 8, 2026, adjustments will be implemented at Station 1 (Paris) to maintain service levels and support future planning for the Paris North Fire Station.

    Key updates include:

    The County of Brant would like to inform residents of temporary operational changes to fire services in Paris to ensure continued response efficiency during the Downtown Dig construction project.

    “We are committed to maintaining the highest level of emergency service for our residents,” said Fire Chief Darren Watson. “These operational changes ensure that, despite construction impacts, our teams can respond quickly and effectively whenever and wherever they are needed."

    Effective Wednesday, April 8, 2026, adjustments will be implemented at Station 1 (Paris) to maintain service levels and support future planning for the Paris North Fire Station.

    Key updates include:

    • Geographic Response Zones
      Fire response coverage will be reorganized into two areas: Paris North and Paris South. This approach will help improve response times by positioning emergency resources on both sides of the downtown construction zone, where traffic disruptions and road restrictions are expected.
    • Updated Response Model
      The current platoon response model will transition to a geographic-based deployment system. This change aligns with long-term planning and the anticipated opening of the Paris North Station in April 2027.
    • Temporary Apparatus Relocation
      Two fire emergency vehicles will be temporarily relocated to the Paris Fairgrounds. This will allow emergency crews to better navigate around construction-related congestion in the downtown core.

    County staff will continue to monitor these changes and make adjustments as needed to ensure reliable emergency response services.

    We would also like to remind residents about green flashing lights. The County of Brant Fire Service is a dedicated volunteer fire service, and many of our firefighters respond to emergencies from their homes or workplaces. To help them reach their stations quickly, volunteers are equipped with green flashing lights for use in their personal vehicles.

    “When you see a green flashing light, it indicates a firefighter is on their way to an emergency,” said Fire Chief Watson. “We encourage all residents to remain alert and safely pull over to allow these vehicles to pass. Your cooperation helps firefighters reach the station faster, because every second counts when responding to an emergency.”

    For more information on the County of Brant Fire Services, visit brant.ca/fire.

  • 2026 Construction begins tomorrow, April 8

    Construction on the Downtown Dig will begin tomorrow, Wednesday, April 8, 2026 (weather permitting).

    We are reminding the public of the following important information:

    Road closures

    • Grand River St N (south of Charlotte → Mechanic)
    • William St (bridge → west of Grand River St N)
    • Grand River St N and William St intersection


    Detours and traffic changes

    • Emily St & Broadway St W → temporary 3-way stop
    • Broadway St E → one-way northbound
    • Charlotte St → one-way eastbound
    • Emily St → one-way westbound


    Important notes

    • Local traffic only in key areas
    • No through truck traffic (use Paris West Bypass)
    • Turning

    Construction on the Downtown Dig will begin tomorrow, Wednesday, April 8, 2026 (weather permitting).

    We are reminding the public of the following important information:

    Road closures

    • Grand River St N (south of Charlotte → Mechanic)
    • William St (bridge → west of Grand River St N)
    • Grand River St N and William St intersection


    Detours and traffic changes

    • Emily St & Broadway St W → temporary 3-way stop
    • Broadway St E → one-way northbound
    • Charlotte St → one-way eastbound
    • Emily St → one-way westbound


    Important notes

    • Local traffic only in key areas
    • No through truck traffic (use Paris West Bypass)
    • Turning restrictions in place


    Businesses remain open – support local

    • Pedestrian access maintained


    Stay informed


    Thank you for your patience during this construction season.

  • Public Notice – No Parking in construction area

    supporting image

    As construction begins on Wednesday, April 8, crews will be onsite starting at approximately 3:00 am, with the work zone closed immediately.

    Please remove vehicles from the construction area on Grand River Street North (south of Charlotte → Mechanic) prior to this time.

    Thank you for your cooperation as work gets underway.

    As construction begins on Wednesday, April 8, crews will be onsite starting at approximately 3:00 am, with the work zone closed immediately.

    Please remove vehicles from the construction area on Grand River Street North (south of Charlotte → Mechanic) prior to this time.

    Thank you for your cooperation as work gets underway.

Page last updated: 14 Jul 2026, 09:05 AM