The City of Nanaimo is warning drivers to expect delays as it is extending the closure along Third Street next week as the year-long construction project continues.
From Feb. 9-13, between the traffic corridor along Third Street between Howard Avenue and Pine Street (Bruce Avenue) will remain closed between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., says the city.
“This extension is required to complete deep utility installations that cannot be safely executed while maintaining live traffic,” adds the city.
To help ease delays, drivers are encouraged to use Fourth Street or Second Street as alternate routes, through Wakesiah Avenue and Pine Street/Bruce Avenue.
The road will reopen to regular two way traffic each day after 7 p.m.
“Local resident access remains available through the work zone. Please speak with a flagger at the Howard Avenue or Pine Street intersections if you require assistance reaching your property.”
The planned closure is in place to complete the next phase of utility upgrades in the year-long Third Street improvement plan.
The project includes several upgrades including replacing aging storm, water and sewer infrastructure, updating safety features, improving accessibility for all demographics as well as streetscape updates that “create a more welcoming and connected public space,” states the project’s site.
The project team appreciates the continued patience of the community during this critical phase of utility upgrades.
The project is currently in its fifth and final phase – construction which started in November 2025 and is expected to finish in the fall of 2026.
To learn more about the project, visit Nanaimo.ca.
