The Downtown Dig is returning this spring

The Downtown Dig is returning this spring to downtown Paris. We are sharing plans for 2026. Included in the scope are "once-in-a-lifetime" upgrades that are building a stronger, more vibrant downtown for many decades to come.

Here’s what’s planned for Grand River Street North:

• Proposed Start Date: Spring 2026 (tentative April - weather dependent).
• Expected Completion Date: Late summer/early fall 2026.

2026 Key Impacts

• Closure of Grand River Street North (Mechanic St. to Charlotte St.). Will remain closed to through traffic until all work is complete. Access to businesses from Charlotte St south to the work zone will be maintained (ie., post office, dental office).
• Closure of the intersection (Grand River St. N. and William St.)

• Closure of William Street (Grand River St. N to the Grand River Bridge) 
• Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the project
• Detour information will be shared and posted prior to the Dig commencing. 

2026 Construction Activities 

• Mechanic Street to William Street: Hydro work at Cobblestone Commons, tap box replacements, concrete planter boxes, raised concrete crosswalks, brick work, final surface asphalt paving, and line painting. Once this work is complete (expected early summer), this section will transform into the Paris Promenade.
• William Street Intersection and north to Charlotte Street: Extensive infrastructure work including traffic signal/street light replacement, sanitary/storm sewer replacement, watermain replacement, fiber optic installation, road base construction, sidewalk/curb installation, tree planting, and streetscape furniture installation (benches, bike racks). 

Special Feature: 2026 Downtown Paris Promenade

The 2026 Downtown Paris Promenade is turning a construction zone into your new favourite hangout.

• Vibrant Vibes: Once the dust settles on the initial roadwork (likely around June), the stretch from Mechanic to William St. will transform into a temporary, pedestrian-only paradise; the Paris Promenade! It will turn into a lively pedestrian place for activities and gathering.
• Shop ‘Til You Drop: Our local shops and cafes are the heart of Paris! The Promenade is designed to keep them bustling and easy to reach while we finish up critical underground upgrades on Grand River Street North.

While you're enjoying the sun, crews will be busy behind the scenes reconstructing Grand River St. N. to keep our community running smoothly for the next 75+ years.

Stay in the loop!

Timelines can shift, so keep an eye on the The Downtown Dig’s Facebook and Instagram, and Engage Brant Downtown Dig page for the latest news. For real-time traffic and detour info, check Municipal 511.