FAQs

Downtown Reimagined is a major infrastructure and streetscape revitalization initiative led by the Town of Grimsby. The project will renew aging underground infrastructure and transform the Downtown Core into a vibrant, pedestrian-priority destination. Guided by a new vision for Main Street East and West, Downtown Reimagined aims to create a safe and accessible Downtown that encourages community gathering, supports local commerce, and celebrates Grimsby’s small-town character and heritage. In doing so, the project positions downtown for long-term economic vitality and growth.

The downtown’s underground infrastructure that includes watermains, stormwater systems and sanitary services is aging and requires replacement. To support this infrastructure renewal, the Town has secured funding through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP) Green Infrastructure Funding stream. 

This essential work creates an opportunity to integrate those upgrades with a bold, future-focused redesign of the streetscape that will enhance safety, accessibility, and the overall visual identity of Downtown Grimsby for generations to come.

Key improvements include:

• Widened sidewalks and safer crossings
• Flexible-use street design for pedestrians, events, and parking
• Street trees, landscaping, and improved lighting
• Public art, heritage features, and site furnishings
• Enhanced accessibility and traffic calming

The Town is committed to minimizing disruption and supporting business continuity, and we are working closely with local businesses, the BIA, the Chamber, community partners, and residents before, during, and after the project. We are committed to:

• Ensuring the Downtown is accessible so local businesses can remain open
• Providing wayfinding, signage, and “Open for Business” promotions that will encourage customers to come downtown and navigate the construction
• Publish regular updates and engagement sessions to keep businesses informed

There will be temporary construction impacts, including noise, detours, and access adjustments. To reduce disruption, work will be completed in carefully planned, phased segments. Throughout the entire project, the Town will provide timely, transparent, and real-time updates as conditions change, using the project website (Let’s Talk Grimsby), news releases on Grimsby.ca, social media, direct mailouts, and local media – keeping residents and businesses informed every step of the way.

Yes. During construction vehicles will still be accommodated, including delivery access and emergency vehicles. Certain streets or sections may be temporarily closed or detoured during construction phases. To better understand the phased construction approach, you can view the recording of the BIA meeting presentation here.

Access for emergency services (fire, ambulance, police) is a priority. Coordination with emergency services has been integrated into the construction and traffic phasing plans.

Traffic impacts are expected during construction. As part of the design and construction planning process, a traffic management plan will be used to minimize disruption, maintain access where possible, and clearly communicate detours and temporary changes to drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.

It means the streetscape is designed to put pedestrians first by introducing slower traffic, wider sidewalks, safer intersections, places to sit and gather, and seasonal features like patios and public art. The design offers flexibility to support daily use but also host community events.

We remain committed to preserving Grimsby’s small-town charm and are working closely with the Town’s Heritage team throughout the design process. The design incorporates elements inspired by Grimsby’s historic architecture, including heritage markers, custom site furnishings, thoughtful material selection, and public art. Together, these elements celebrate the Town’s unique character while meeting modern accessibility and design standards.

• Let’s Talk Grimsby: Central website for project updates, surveys, and opportunities to provide feedback.
• Email Newsletter: Monthly project updates are shared on the Let’s Talk Grimsby project page. Residents must subscribe to the project page to receive updates directly in their inbox – emails are sent in real time as new information becomes available. Updates are also shared with the BIA and Chamber for amplification through their business networks.
• Grimsby.ca: General news posts and official news releases will be posted on the Town’s main website. Residents can also subscribe to receive updates directly by visiting: www.grimsby.ca/subscribe/.
• News Releases: Project updates will also be issued to local and regional media outlets.
• Council Updates: Formal project updates provided at Town Council meetings.
• Social Media: Regular, coordinated updates shared across Town channels and amplified through BIA, Chamber, and partner accounts.
• Construction Signage: On-site signage providing real-time updates, detour information, and wayfinding to support local businesses.
• Business & Stakeholder Outreach: Key project information provided through the BIA and Chamber to ensure timely, consistent communication with the business community.

Stakeholders can provide feedback via:

• Let’s Talk Grimsby portal (email the Team directly or use the Questions Tool found at the bottom of the page)
• The project email: dtreimagined@grimsby.ca
• Public meetings and engagement sessions
• Surveys and business roundtables at key milestones

Yes, the public was able to participate in the initial community visioning exercises, and we have integrated public feedback directly into the current design. 

Construction will be completed in two phases in 2026 and 2027. Final timelines will be provided as each phase is scheduled. The Town is committed to keeping the community informed.