New downtown street lights to be switched on this week

Work crews are planning to use a temporary supply source this week to energize new street lighting on the north side of Queen Street between March and Spring.

The Downtown Association advised its members today that installation of remaining boulevard pavers is also expected to be completed on the north side of the same block.

"With traffic now diverted to the north side between March and west side of Brock, the contractor will be undertaking removals of the hard surfaces (such as concrete and unit pavers) along the businesses on the south side commencing from March Street and working towards Brock," engineering consultant AECOM said.

"Temporary walkway will be provided along the buildings to access the businesses. If there’s a need to close a walkway, the contractor will coordinate with the businesses to determine best timing and the provide alternative access whenever feasible."

Installation will also begin on the south side of the large underground soil cells that will support growth of deciduous trees that will frame the new Queen Street.

Here's what else workers hope to get done this week:

Elgin to March

• continue with installation of new watermain and sanitary sewer towards Elgin
• complete backfilling and restoration of roadway behind pipe operations

Spring to East of Brock (north side)

• complete concrete sidewalk on northwest and northeast corners of Brock
• commence with installation of unit pavers and continue with precast retaining wall for planters
• energize new street lighting from a temporary supply.

Queen Street is now closed from March to Elgin and will remain closed until early October.

This year's Queen Street road work is expected to be substantially completed by late this fall with some work possibly continuing into 2025.

Downtown businesses remain open during the Queen Street road work, with front and back entrances and parking options available for shoppers and other customers.