Starting this June, the City of Wrenford will close a section of Water Street to vehicles every weekend for a new pedestrian zone pilot. Council approved the plan earlier this spring to give local businesses more room, create a safer space for families, and test how a car-free downtown street can work in our city.
The pilot runs from Saturday, June 7 to Sunday, August 24, 2025. Water Street will be closed to through traffic from Mercer Street to Albert Street each weekend between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. During these hours, the street will become a shared space for pedestrians, cyclists, and local vendors. You will see expanded outdoor patios for restaurants, movable seating, shade structures, and a small stage for live music and community performances.
How this affects your drive
During pilot hours, local access to businesses and residences along Water Street will remain open. However, through traffic will be detoured. Please follow the posted signs and expect minor delays. The #5 Wrenford Transit route will be rerouted along Tamsin Street and Mercer Street on weekends. The Downtown Transit Terminal at Market Square remains fully accessible.
What residents and visitors can expect
City staff will work with the Downtown Wrenford Business Improvement Area and local business owners to coordinate vendor stalls and patio expansions. The City will also provide extra waste collection bins and schedule street sweeping before each weekend. You can expect the street to reopen to normal traffic by 7:00 p.m. each Sunday.
What you need to know
- Plan your trips around the closure times and detours.
- Follow all temporary signage and instructions from traffic volunteers.
- Report accessibility barriers or safety concerns by calling 311 or visiting Accessibility.
- Sign up for weekend updates and event listings on the News & Events page.
“This pilot is a great chance for us to see how Water Street can work better for people,” says Mayor Danielle Okafor-Price. “We want to support our downtown businesses, encourage walking and cycling, and give families a place to gather safely. We are listening closely to feedback from residents and shop owners, and we will use that information to shape any future changes.”
The City will track traffic patterns, business sales data, and public feedback throughout the summer. Staff will present a report to Council this fall outlining the results and recommending next steps. You can track the discussion and vote on the pilot plan in the View council meeting schedules. For ongoing information about street closures, detours, and transit changes, visit Roads & Winter Maintenance.