End of October update

The Downtown Dig is entering its final stages, but completion has been slightly delayed due to a parts supply issue. While crews were aiming to fully open the road during the week of October 19, a delay in installing traffic signals at the William Street intersection has pushed the timeline back.

County staff remain optimistic for a late October or very early November full reopening. To keep the project moving as fast as possible, the contractor plans to work this Saturday, October 17 between the hours of 7:00 am and 5:00 pm (weather permitting).

Below is the revised, phased plan to get the road fully reopened.

Revised reopening phases

Phase 1: William Street intersection reopens (Targeted for the end of next week)

  • Crews expect to finish and inspect the traffic signals.
  • Once approved, the William Street intersection and Grand River Street North (heading north) will fully reopen.
  • Paving and line painting for this section are already complete.


Phase 2: Full reopening (Immediately following Phase 1)

  • Grand River Street North (between William St and the Nith River Bridge) will close for four days.
  • This closure is required to pave the final layer of asphalt, install two raised crosswalks, and paint the Veteran’s crosswalk at Mechanic Street.
  • We will share the detour route utilizing Willow St and William St as we approach this work.
  • Note: This 4-day phase is highly weather-dependent and will determine the exact final opening date.


Project status checklist

Completed milestones (100% Done)

  • All watermain and sanitary sewer installations
  • Siphon work, lining, and road granular
  • Topsoil placement, curbs, and sidewalks
  • Base asphalt, streetlights, and hydro repairs


Work remaining

  • 95% Complete: Brickwork
  • Traffic signal installation and testing
  • Siphon chamber lid installation, backfilling, and area restoration
  • Restoration of the east side of the William Street bridge
  • Planting trees and greenery
  • Surface asphalt paving (Mechanic Street to the Nith River Bridge)
  • Installing the Veterans Crosswalk by Mechanic Street
  • Power washing sidewalks and building faces
  • Fixing any remaining minor deficiencies


Stay informed

County staff will continue to monitor progress closely and provide regular updates as we enter these final weeks of construction.

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  • Visit brant.ca/DowntownDig for additional information.
  • Follow the Downtown Dig on Facebook and Instagram.


Thank you for your continued patience.