Downtown Tree and Paver Replacement

We are undertaking work along King Street to replace trees and improve the paved surface between the sidewalk and roadway. There are many benefits to this work, including:

• Replaced aging electrical equipment and damaged or uneven pavers
• Improved performance of the planters and tree wells
• Easier management and better health of trees along King Street
• Improved installation and maintenance of horticulture displays in planters

The first part of this project is already complete. It took place fall 2022 between Water Street and Ontario Street. The final part takes place spring 2023 between College Street to Young Street.

The City of Kitchener received a non-repayable contribution of $499,000 from the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) as part of the Canada Community Revitalization Fund to complete this project.

We heard that residents and businesses had many questions and wanted more information about this project. We created this page so you can ask questions and learn more – and so we can hear about and address concerns earlier in the process.

Where and when is the work happening?

This work will take place from March 17 to the end of June, as follows:

• King Street, the south side opposite Carl Zehr Square, College to Young (Area 3)
• King Street, north side Young to Ontario (Area 5)
• King Street, south side at 125 King St. W. (Area 2)

The work in Area 3 involves concrete work and may be subject to some weather delays if we have a particularly cold end to winter.

How you might be affected

• There will be no full street closures. We will sometimes need to close a lane for a short time to allow for the delivery of construction materials.
• We will close lanes intermittently as needed for short periods of time. As described in the image above, traffic control personnel will be present to direct traffic flow during those times.
• Parking may be affected during construction. Businesses along this part of King Street should tell delivery services about this work and the effect on parking and lane closures.
• Public access to businesses and residences will be maintained at all times. But temporary adjustments to the pedestrian routes will occur as the work progresses.
• Your garbage collection may be affected. In this case, take your garbage either across the street where work is not happening or to the nearest side street for collection.
• Patio installations for 2023 in the areas above will be take place following completion of construction.
• The current design of King Street will not change because of this work.

Please note that there may be other downtown sidewalk or road disruptions unrelated to this project as well. 

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