Downtown Paris Master Plan: The Downtown Dig

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

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 lot behind Council Chambers (future update pending)

*Proposed location, additional design work will be done to ensure suitability.

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

Subscribe to this project and be the first to receive updates as they are available. Add your email to the Stay Informed box on this page and click ‘Subscribe'.

  • Downtown Dig Progress Update: September 12

    We’re moving into the final stages of Phase 2a and 2b of the Downtown Dig! Much of the major infrastructure work is now complete, and crews are focusing on finishing touches that will bring us closer to a renewed and revitalized downtown.

    Work done the past two weeks

    • Sanitary sewer services to buildings 100% complete
    • Remaining catchbasin installations and storm sewer system 100% complete
    • Bell works 100% complete
    • Foundation restoration 98% complete, surface parging remains
    • Other identified foundation repairs ongoing
    • Lisa's Way walkway restored, planter box area remains
    • Excavation for road base 100% complete
    • Road base gravel placement 50% complete

    We’re moving into the final stages of Phase 2a and 2b of the Downtown Dig! Much of the major infrastructure work is now complete, and crews are focusing on finishing touches that will bring us closer to a renewed and revitalized downtown.

    Work done the past two weeks

    • Sanitary sewer services to buildings 100% complete
    • Remaining catchbasin installations and storm sewer system 100% complete
    • Bell works 100% complete
    • Foundation restoration 98% complete, surface parging remains
    • Other identified foundation repairs ongoing
    • Lisa's Way walkway restored, planter box area remains
    • Excavation for road base 100% complete
    • Road base gravel placement 50% complete
    • Landscaping work has commenced
    • Streetlight conduit installation has commenced
    • Hydro works Ongoing

    Next 2 weeks

    • Hydro works continue
    • Landscaping works continue
    • Streetlight conduit installation continues
    • Foundation restoration work will be complete
    • Other identified foundation repairs will be complete
    • Curb installation to commence
    • Sidewalk installation to commence.


    Thank you to our residents, businesses, and visitors for your continued patience and support throughout this project — the end result is just around the corner!

    Stay connected and informed

    ✔ Follow the Downtown Dig and the Downtown Paris BIA (@dtparisontario) on Facebook and Instagram
    ✔ Subscribe for project updates and explore detour maps, phase details, and more on this page
    ✔ Visit www.brant,ca/DowntownDig for additional resources
    ✔ Refer to for the most up-to-date traffic information regarding road construction and closures at www.municipal511.ca.

  • Lisa's Way Walkway Closure

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    Lisa’s Way walkway in Downtown Paris, located between BMO and the County of Brant Customer Service Office, is tentatively scheduled to close for concrete walkway installation from Wednesday, September 3 to Friday, September 5, 2025 (weather permitting). Updates will be shared as they become available.

    Pedestrian through access from the parking lot to Grand River Street North between 66 and 68 Grand River Street North will be unavailable.

    Detour signage to/from Grand River Street North will be posted. County of Brant public washrooms will remain open.

    Please use alternate routes to access Downtown:

    Lisa’s Way walkway in Downtown Paris, located between BMO and the County of Brant Customer Service Office, is tentatively scheduled to close for concrete walkway installation from Wednesday, September 3 to Friday, September 5, 2025 (weather permitting). Updates will be shared as they become available.

    Pedestrian through access from the parking lot to Grand River Street North between 66 and 68 Grand River Street North will be unavailable.

    Detour signage to/from Grand River Street North will be posted. County of Brant public washrooms will remain open.

    Please use alternate routes to access Downtown:

    • Mechanic Street
    • William Street
    • Accessible access available via Rexall

    Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to build a better Downtown Paris, Ontario!

    To learn more about the Downtown Dig, or view the Downtown Paris Business Directory, visit brant.ca/DowntownDig


  • Downtown Dig Progress Update - August 29

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    Great progress is being made in Downtown Paris!

    Over the past two weeks crews have:
    ✅ Completed watermain work and fire hydrant repairs (new system is now fully operational!)
    ✅ Finished storm repairs on Lisa’s Way
    ✅ Continued important hydro and utility work

    Next 2 Weeks Ahead:
    • Continued sanitary, hydro, and Bell work
    • Catch basin lead repairs starting
    • Road building begins: excavation + base material placement
    • Concrete walkway installation is tentatively scheduled to take place on Lisa’s Way on September 3 and 4. The walkway will be closed during this time.

    During the Dig, access to

    Great progress is being made in Downtown Paris!

    Over the past two weeks crews have:
    ✅ Completed watermain work and fire hydrant repairs (new system is now fully operational!)
    ✅ Finished storm repairs on Lisa’s Way
    ✅ Continued important hydro and utility work

    Next 2 Weeks Ahead:
    • Continued sanitary, hydro, and Bell work
    • Catch basin lead repairs starting
    • Road building begins: excavation + base material placement
    • Concrete walkway installation is tentatively scheduled to take place on Lisa’s Way on September 3 and 4. The walkway will be closed during this time.

    During the Dig, access to your favourite businesses and establishments remains open – though occasional changes to crosswalks and sidewalks may occur due to construction.

    As always, we encourage you to think local and shop in Downtown Paris. The heart of our community thrives with your support!

    Stay connected and informed:

    ✔ Follow the Downtown Dig and the Downtown Paris BIA (@dtparisontario) on Facebook and Instagram
    ✔ Subscribe for project updates and explore detour maps, phase details, and more on this page
    ✔ Visit www.brant,ca/DowntownDig for additional resources
    ✔ Refer to for the most up-to-date traffic information regarding road construction and closures at www.municipal511.ca.

    Thank you for your continued patience as we move closer to a revitalized downtown!

  • Downtown Dig Progress Update - August 15

    What’s been done (last 2 weeks)

    • Watermain services (main to curbstop) - 90% completed
    • Watermain services (curbstop to building) - 50% completed
    • Sanitary services to building connections - 50% completed
    • Hydro work started


    Coming up (next 2 weeks)

    • Water services from main to curbstop continues
    • Water services from curbstop to building continues
    • Sanitary service connection to building continues
    • Hydro work continues


    Lisa's Way Update

    • Lisa's Way storm repair next week from Monday, August 18 to Thursday, August 21 (weather depending)
    • Midblock crosswalk will be shifted shortly North of current location
    • Public washrooms will be temporarily unavailable within the duration of

    What’s been done (last 2 weeks)

    • Watermain services (main to curbstop) - 90% completed
    • Watermain services (curbstop to building) - 50% completed
    • Sanitary services to building connections - 50% completed
    • Hydro work started


    Coming up (next 2 weeks)

    • Water services from main to curbstop continues
    • Water services from curbstop to building continues
    • Sanitary service connection to building continues
    • Hydro work continues


    Lisa's Way Update

    • Lisa's Way storm repair next week from Monday, August 18 to Thursday, August 21 (weather depending)
    • Midblock crosswalk will be shifted shortly North of current location
    • Public washrooms will be temporarily unavailable within the duration of the work and portable washrooms will be provided.
    • South row of parking behind BMO will be temporarily unavailable within the duration of the work.


    During the Dig, sidewalks, crosswalks, and access to your favourite businesses and establishments will remain open — though occasional changes may occur due to construction activities.

    As always, we encourage you to think local and shop in Downtown Paris. The heart of our community thrives with your support.


    Stay connected and informed


    Thank you for your continued patience as we work to upgrade the infrastructure in Downtown Paris.

  • Downtown Paris Pedestrian Access Closure August 18 to 21, 2025

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    The Downtown Paris pedestrian access known as Lisa's Way, between 66 and 68 Grand River Street North, will be closed beginning Monday, August 18 to Thursday, August 21, 2025.

    Details

    • Closure is taking place to safely replace the existing storm sewer pipe. Weather permitting.
    • Mid-block crosswalk will be moved slightly north of the current location.
    • A section of the public parking lot behind 68 Grand River Street North will be temporarily unavailable for the duration of the work.
    • Pedestrian through access from the parking lot to Grand River Street North between 66 and 68 Grand River Street North will be

    The Downtown Paris pedestrian access known as Lisa's Way, between 66 and 68 Grand River Street North, will be closed beginning Monday, August 18 to Thursday, August 21, 2025.

    Details

    • Closure is taking place to safely replace the existing storm sewer pipe. Weather permitting.
    • Mid-block crosswalk will be moved slightly north of the current location.
    • A section of the public parking lot behind 68 Grand River Street North will be temporarily unavailable for the duration of the work.
    • Pedestrian through access from the parking lot to Grand River Street North between 66 and 68 Grand River Street North will be unavailable.
    • Pedestrian detour signage to/from Grand River Street North will be posted.

    It is our goal to minimize any inconvenience to our residents. Your patience through any disruption will be greatly appreciated.

    Stay connected and informed


    Thank you for your continued patience as we work to upgrade the infrastructure in Downtown Paris.

  • Downtown Dig Progress Update - August 1

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    Highlights from the last two weeks

    • Watermain disinfection & testing – Complete!
    • Watermain is now live at William Street & the Grand River Street North intersection
    • Water service (main to curbstop): 66% complete
    • Water service (curbstop to building): 7% underway
    • Storm sewer system: COMPLETE!


    What's coming up next

    • Water service work continues
    • Sanitary service connections begin
    • Hydro work at William Street & Grand River Street North (Southeast corner) begins after the long weekend


    Additional timeline information will be shared as it becomes available.

    During the Dig, sidewalks, crosswalks, and access to all your favourite businesses and establishments remain open –

    Highlights from the last two weeks

    • Watermain disinfection & testing – Complete!
    • Watermain is now live at William Street & the Grand River Street North intersection
    • Water service (main to curbstop): 66% complete
    • Water service (curbstop to building): 7% underway
    • Storm sewer system: COMPLETE!


    What's coming up next

    • Water service work continues
    • Sanitary service connections begin
    • Hydro work at William Street & Grand River Street North (Southeast corner) begins after the long weekend


    Additional timeline information will be shared as it becomes available.

    During the Dig, sidewalks, crosswalks, and access to all your favourite businesses and establishments remain open – with the occasional changes due to construction activities.

    As always, we encourage you to think local, and shop in Downtown Paris. The heart of Paris needs the support of our local community!


    Stay connected and informed

    • Follow the Downtown Dig and Downtown Paris, Ontario on Facebook and Instagram
    • Subscribe for updates by clicking 'Subscribe' on the Stay Informed box on this page
    • Visit brant.ca/DowntownDig for additional resources
    • Refer to Municipal 511 at municipal511.ca for the most up-to-date traffic information regarding road construction and closure


    Thank you for your continued patience as we work to upgrade the infrastructure in Downtown Paris.

  • July 24 Update – Overnight Watermain Work

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    Please be advised that overnight watermain work is scheduled to begin on Monday, July 28 from 7:00 pm to Tuesday, July 29 at 7:00 am in downtown Paris.

    During this time, William Street will be reduced to one lane and the crosswalk south of Grand River Street North and William Street will be temporarily closed.

    Traffic will be maintained, and for your safety the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) will be onsite to assist with traffic control at the intersection.

    We kindly remind all drivers and pedestrians to exercise extra caution when traveling in or near construction zones.

    Stay Connected and

    Please be advised that overnight watermain work is scheduled to begin on Monday, July 28 from 7:00 pm to Tuesday, July 29 at 7:00 am in downtown Paris.

    During this time, William Street will be reduced to one lane and the crosswalk south of Grand River Street North and William Street will be temporarily closed.

    Traffic will be maintained, and for your safety the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) will be onsite to assist with traffic control at the intersection.

    We kindly remind all drivers and pedestrians to exercise extra caution when traveling in or near construction zones.

    Stay Connected and Informed


    Downtown businesses remain open throughout construction – please continue to show your support and shop local!

    Thanks for your continued patience as we improve infrastructure in downtown Paris!

  • Downtown Dig Progress Update - July 18

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    Phase 2 of the Downtown Dig is well underway and we are pleased to share a construction update!


    Highlights from the Last Two Weeks

    • Watermain installation – excluding services (south of William Street): Complete!
    • Water service connections underway: 30% complete
    • Pedestrian access across Grand River Street North at Mechanic Street: Reopened (shifted south)
    • Storm sewer work (north of the mid-block crossing to William Street): 75% complete

    Coming Up Next

    • Water service connections continue
    • Watermain testing & disinfection begins
    • Storm sewer work (north of mid-block):Wrapping up
    • New sewer work (south of mid-block to Nith River Bridge):Starting
    • Hydro servicing: Tentatively starting

    Phase 2 of the Downtown Dig is well underway and we are pleased to share a construction update!


    Highlights from the Last Two Weeks

    • Watermain installation – excluding services (south of William Street): Complete!
    • Water service connections underway: 30% complete
    • Pedestrian access across Grand River Street North at Mechanic Street: Reopened (shifted south)
    • Storm sewer work (north of the mid-block crossing to William Street): 75% complete

    Coming Up Next

    • Water service connections continue
    • Watermain testing & disinfection begins
    • Storm sewer work (north of mid-block):Wrapping up
    • New sewer work (south of mid-block to Nith River Bridge):Starting
    • Hydro servicing: Tentatively starting

    During the Dig, sidewalks, crosswalks, and access to all your favourite businesses and establishments remain open, and we encourage you to think local, and shop in Downtown Paris. The heart of Paris needs the support of our local community!


    Stay Connected and Informed

    • Follow the Downtown Dig and Downtown Paris, Ontario on Facebook and Instagram
    • Subscribe for updates by clicking 'Subscribe' on the Stay Informed box on this page
    • Visit brant.ca/DowntownDig for additional resources
    • Check live traffic updates at municipal511.ca, including road construction and closures

    Thanks for your continued patience as we improve infrastructure in downtown Paris!


  • Downtown Dig Progress Update - July 4

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    Downtown Dig Construction Update – Grand River Street North

    Here’s what’s been completed in the last 2 Weeks of the Dig:

    • Sanitary sewer main (South of William Street) – 100% complete
    • Watermain (South of William Street) – 50% complete
    • Temporary asphalt placed for pedestrian access at William Street & Grand River Street North
    • Uneven sidewalks patched
    • Pedestrian access walkways continue to shift due to the construction taking place. A pedestrian access walkway across Grand River Street North will be available north of Mechanic Street for the weekend.

    What’s coming up next:

    • Continued watermain installation (South of William Street)
    • Stormwater main

    Downtown Dig Construction Update – Grand River Street North

    Here’s what’s been completed in the last 2 Weeks of the Dig:

    • Sanitary sewer main (South of William Street) – 100% complete
    • Watermain (South of William Street) – 50% complete
    • Temporary asphalt placed for pedestrian access at William Street & Grand River Street North
    • Uneven sidewalks patched
    • Pedestrian access walkways continue to shift due to the construction taking place. A pedestrian access walkway across Grand River Street North will be available north of Mechanic Street for the weekend.

    What’s coming up next:

    • Continued watermain installation (South of William Street)
    • Stormwater main installation and private servicing to follow

    Details are subject to change due to weather or other factors. Please continue to follow us for updates.

    Thank you for your patience as we improve infrastructure in the area. Please follow posted signage and stay safe around construction zones.

    As always, we remind the public that downtown businesses remain open during construction. Please continue to shop local and show your support. Follow 'Downtown Paris Ontario' on Facebook and Instagram for events and activities taking place this summer!

    To learn more about the Downtown Dig, visit www.brant.ca/DowntownDig.


  • Downtown Dig Progress Update - June 19

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    Here’s what’s been happening over the past 2 weeks in Downtown Paris:
    • Oil and Grit Separator has been fully installed
    • Sanitary sewer main system (south of William St): 3/4 complete
    • Water main system (south of William St): 1/5 complete
    Coming up next:
    • Sanitary main work expected to wrap up by the end of next week (weather permitting)
    • Storm main system installation will follow
    • Water main work will continue, with service connections to follow shortly after
    For the services listed above this does not include the individual service connections to properties. These will be done at a later date.
    The Navacon
    Here’s what’s been happening over the past 2 weeks in Downtown Paris:
    • Oil and Grit Separator has been fully installed
    • Sanitary sewer main system (south of William St): 3/4 complete
    • Water main system (south of William St): 1/5 complete
    Coming up next:
    • Sanitary main work expected to wrap up by the end of next week (weather permitting)
    • Storm main system installation will follow
    • Water main work will continue, with service connections to follow shortly after
    For the services listed above this does not include the individual service connections to properties. These will be done at a later date.
    The Navacon team will be offsite tomorrow (June 20) for required training and will not be onsite Monday, June 30 as several Canada Day celebrations take place in Downtown Paris! Be sure to follow the Downtown Dig on Facebook and Instgram for project updates, highlights and more Also follow Downtown Paris, Ontario to learn more about the exciting events planned.
    Thank you for your continued patience and support during the Downtown Dig! To learn more about the Dig visit brant.ca/DowntownDig
Page last updated: 07 Apr 2026, 05:05 PM