Downtown Reimagined Project Update – May 8, 2026

We’re sharing a quick project update, along with some helpful information based on questions we’ve been hearing from the community.

PROJECT UPDATE

The project remains on schedule, and we’ve reached an important milestone this week with the close of the contractor submission period.

Next, the project team will move into the evaluation and selection phase – bringing us one step closer to breaking ground on June 22.

RESPONSES TO COMMUNITY QUESTIONS

We've heard a lot of thoughtful questions and conversations about what this project will mean for day-to-day life downtown. We appreciate the engagement – it’s important, and it helps us share clear and accurate information.

Here are responses to some of the most common questions asked:

The most important response is that downtown will not be closed this summer. Businesses will remain open.

Will Downtown be closed this summer?

Downtown Grimsby will remain open this summer.

Phase 1 runs from June 22 through October 31, 2026. During that time, you can expect some noise, temporary detours, and occasional access adjustments – that’s the reality of a project of this scale.

That said, downtown businesses will be open, accessible, and ready to welcome you.

In response to feedback from our business community, construction is being carefully phased to maintain access and reduce disruption. Downtown may look a little different this summer, but it will still be open and vibrant.

We encourage everyone to continue visiting, shopping, dining, and supporting the local businesses that make downtown Grimsby so special.

Is this project related to the new condo developments?

This work is essential and is an important investment in infrastructure that will support the community for years to come.

Downtown’s underground infrastructure - including aging cast iron watermains, stormwater systems, and sanitary services - needs renewal. The Town has experienced multiple watermain breaks in recent years, and this work is needed regardless of new development in the area.

The timing is also supported by funding through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP) – a federal and provincial grant, secured by the Town – which helps offset the cost of this critical work.

Will traffic be significantly impacted during construction?

There will be impacts, but traffic and access will be actively managed.

Managing traffic flow is a top priority. A detailed traffic management plan is in place to maintain access for vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians, deliveries, and emergency services throughout construction.

As a reminder, the Farmers’ Market will temporarily relocate to the Major Refrigeration Peach King Centre once construction begins, so your Thursday market tradition can continue.

We’ll continue to share updates on traffic and access as we get closer to the June 22 start date.

Why complete this work in sections? Wouldn’t it be faster all at once?

Phasing the work was a deliberate choice to better support businesses and the community.

By completing the project in smaller, sequential sections, we can reduce the size and duration of disruptions in any one area. This approach also allows the project team to respond more quickly to unexpected issues . This approach was shaped directly by feedback from the BIA and the business community.

Will vehicles be able to access Main Street?

Yes. Vehicle access will be maintained throughout construction.

There may be temporary adjustments to certain streets or sections during specific phases, but access for deliveries, customers, and emergency services will continue.

Clear signage will be in place to help guide visitors to open businesses.

NEXT STEPS

We understand that change can bring uncertainty – especially for those who live and work downtown. This project represents an investment in Grimsby's future and we are committed to making the journey as smooth as possible.

Thank you for your continued patience and support.

STAY CONNECTED

Never miss an update! If you haven’t already subscribed to our news page, simply select “Follow Project” on the right-hand side of the page.

For questions, please email DTreimagined@grimsby.ca.