Queen Street to close for two days starting Tuesday

Queen Street will be closed in both directions in the downtown construction zone for two days starting Tuesday, July 9.

The Downtown Association advised its members today that the closure will allow installation of a new water service across the city's main downtown commercial street.

PUC was to cut water service on Queen between Spring and Brock from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. today to complete some upgrades to the existing water distribution system, as part of the ongoing reconstruction of Queen Street.

During the remainder of the week, the contractor will work on one side of the street at a time, with a single lane of traffic and one parking lane still open to traffic.

"One lane is now closed between March and Brock Street on north side," the business group said.

"Once the hard surfaces (such as concrete and unit pavers) are removed, temporary walkways will be established to allow access to 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."

Queen Street from Elgin to March will be totally closed for six weeks starting in mid-August. 

The contractor advises that there may be other short-term closures of Queen Street and its side streets, with appropriate notice given.

Here's what got done during the past week:

March to Spring (north side)

• worked on electrical ducts for new street lighting

Spring to Brock (north side)

• installed catch basin and storm leads
• replaced existing faulty water curb boxes
• excavated existing watermain at three locations in preparation for work planned for today
• erected advance notice signage for planned Queen Street closure on Tuesday, July 9 and Wednesday, July 10

Here's what work crews hope to get done this week:

March to Spring (north side)

• complete electrical ducts for new street fighting
• prepare for concrete sidewall

Spring to Brock (north side)

• continue with installation of catch basins and storm leads
• replace existing faulty water curb boxes
• complete new valve installations and decommissioning of service on existing watermain
• complete installation of new water service on Tuesday, July 9 and Wednesday July 10 during closure of Queen Street

The 2024 work is expected to be substantially complete late this fall although some work may stretch into 2025 depending on the final project limits.