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 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 will affect:

• 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

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