Starting Monday, April 20, 2026, the City of Wrenford will open a new pedestrian zone on Water Street in downtown. The project turns a busy section of the road into a shared space for walking, local dining and community events. The zone runs from Mercer Street to Mill Street, right alongside the new Benchlands Park pathway connection.
City crews have installed sturdy planters, movable seating and weather-resistant shade structures along the curbside. The changes are part of the Water Street Activation Project, which aims to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists while giving local businesses more room for patios and outdoor displays. Motorists will still have access to the street, but vehicle speeds will be reduced through raised crosswalks and narrowed lanes.
Ward 1 Councillor Marcus Lindqvist says the changes will make the area more welcoming for everyone. "Water Street has always been the heart of our downtown, and this project makes it a better place for residents, visitors and shop owners," he says. "We have listened to the community and this pilot gives us the chance to see how the space works before we make it permanent."
You can expect a few changes while the zone is open. A new two-way cycling lane will run alongside the pedestrian area. Parking will be restricted to designated bays along the south side of the street. Delivery vehicles must use the loading zone near Water Street and Albert Street between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. If you live on Water Street, you will still have access to your home and driveway.
Starting this spring, the City will host weekly street markets and live music on the first Saturday of each month. Local artists will also display their work in the new public art frames installed along the street. The City encourages all road users to follow the posted signs and signals. You should expect slower traffic and be ready to share the road with pedestrians and cyclists.
You can find more information about the activation project, updates on traffic changes and how to apply for a street use permit on the Roads & Winter Maintenance page. You can also report issues or ask questions by calling Service Wrenford 311. For details on water main flushing schedules and how the City protects our water supply during construction, visit Water & Wastewater.