Columbia Street

Overview

Project number: 04082 | Updated: April 2026

The Region of Waterloo, in partnership with the City of Waterloo, is completing improvements to local water infrastructure along Columbia Street from Westmount Road to King Street North. The project includes installation of new watermain infrastructure, replacement of portions of the existing system, and upgrades to valves and related components.

Road resurfacing and new active transportation features, including dedicated cycling lanes, will also be completed as part of this work. These improvements will enhance system reliability and support long-term, efficient delivery of water to the community.

Schedule

Design and planning: 2024–2025
Construction (King Street to Phillip Street): 2026 (ongoing)
Construction (Phillip Street to Old Post Road): 2027
Final paving and active transportation upgrades: 2028

Note: timing may be affected by weather conditions and changing project scope; updates will be posted as needed.

Budget

$14 million (construction)

Traffic and Detours

Lane restrictions and temporary closures will be required throughout construction. Traffic will be maintained in both directions using lane shifts where possible, and intersections will remain open except for short-term closures required for tie-in work.

In 2027, additional impacts are expected, including a westbound closure between Hagey Boulevard and the ION LRT crossing, with detours in place. An extended westbound lane closure is also anticipated at the Columbia Lake culvert crossing.

Advance notice and detour signage will be provided. Emergency Services will be notified, and Grand River Transit service will be maintained where possible, with updates available at www.grt.ca/detours.

Text 57555 with the code CMBA to get the latest information on the project