Victoria Avenue is expected to reopen to vehicle traffic by December 6, weather permitting.

The City of Thunder Bay says this is a major milestone in the ongoing Reimagine Victoriaville project, and will improve access to downtown businesses ahead of the holiday shopping season.

Paving work is expected to be completed over the next two weeks. Once paving is finished, crews will continue working on sidewalks, lighting, business entrances and other streetscape features as weather conditions allow.

The construction timeline was reportedly delayed after crews encountered unforeseen underground conditions that required additional investigation and remediation work.

“Reopening Victoria Avenue to vehicle traffic before the holiday season will be an important milestone for the project and downtown businesses,” said Kelvin Jankowski, manager of capital facility construction.

Jankowski thanked businesses, residents and visitors for their patience as work progresses toward completion.

While motorists are expected to regain access to Victoria Avenue this winter, construction on several project components will continue. Temporary pedestrian access routes will remain in place where necessary to ensure businesses and properties remain accessible throughout the winter months.

The city says final work will be completed during the 2027 construction season. Remaining tasks include landscaping, paving stone features, sidewalk and plaza elements, and installation of the permanent road surface. Additional temporary road closures will be required to complete that work.

The Reimagine Victoriaville project is part of the City’s Smart Growth Action Plan and is intended to create a more vibrant and accessible downtown public space while supporting retail, cultural and community activity in the city’s south core.