The watermain upsizing of Toronto Road and reconstruction of Victoria Street South are set to begin this spring. The anticipated project site will run from Fraser Street to south of Trafalgar Street. Preemptive work for this project is set to begin the week of March 16.

This work will include a geotechnical borehole investigation and the removal of six (6) trees along Victoria Street. The tree removals are required to occur before the end of March to comply with environmental regulations and avoid the migratory bird-nesting window. Removing the identified trees (marked with orange paint) in advance will help ensure the construction schedule can proceed without delay once a contractor is selected. The Municipality will be replacing the 6 trees with 12 new trees and other plantings as part of the reconstruction project. Traffic impacts are expected to be minimal during this preemptive work. While temporary lane adjustments or short-duration stoppages may occur when the drilling equipment is positioned, the intent is to maintain traffic flow and access for local residents.

The contract for this reconstruction project is currently out for tender until April 9. Once a contract has been awarded and a contractor is retained, additional updates and communications will be provided at engage.porthope.ca/VTreconstruction.

In 2023, the Municipality hosted a community information and engagement session, along with a public survey to gather input on this project. The project has since been included in the 2026 Budget, allowing staff to move forward with next steps. Interested residents are encouraged to review the details on project page and follow the project for ongoing updates.

We appreciate residents’ understanding as these necessary steps are being taken to prepare for the upcoming infrastructure improvements on Victoria Street/Toronto Road.