Downtown Paris Master Plan: The Downtown Dig

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Big changes are coming to Paris in 2025 with the Downtown Dig! This once-in-a-lifetime project will replace essential infrastructure like water, sewer, and utilities.

While construction will be challenging for residents and businesses, the end result will be 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 will undergo major reconstruction. This level of construction in a downtown occurs every 75-100 years. It includes replacing critical major infrastructure which will ensure the longevity of the thriving downtown for decades to come. The final result will be beautiful, functional and accessible for all.

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 will be 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.

“The Downtown Dig” will affect:

• West River Street (Mechanic Street to Broadway Street West) - 2024/2025
• Grand River Street North between the Nith River Bridge and north of William Street - 2025/2026
• Mechanic Street from Grand River Street North to West River Street (full underground replacement and street scaping) - 2026
• Grand River Street South from Nith River Bridge to Dumfries Street intersection (full underground replacement and roundabout*) – 2027
• Broadway Street West from Mechanic Street to William Street, and William Street from Broadway Street to Grand River Street North - 2028
• Municipal parking lot behind Council Chambers (future date 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 www.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.

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