$6.9M Jarvis Street overhaul kicks off Orillia’s 2025 construction season

A construction sign is pictured. (Jeff Keele/CTV News)

Orillia’s 2025 construction season is set to begin next week with the launch of the Jarvis Street Reconstruction project, marking the start of several infrastructure improvements across the city.

Work on Jarvis Street begins Monday and includes a full reconstruction between Laclie Street and Bay Street. The $6.9 million project will involve replacing underground water and sewer lines, upgrading sidewalks, and resurfacing the road. New layby parking will also be added between Canice Street and Bay Street.

“Projects such as the Jarvis Street Reconstruction project are critical investments in our city’s infrastructure and will contribute to improved roads, sidewalks, water systems, and public spaces,” Mayor Don McIsaac said in a statement. “We appreciate your patience as we begin the spring construction season in Orillia.”

To allow for the work, Jarvis Street will be closed to through traffic between Bay and Laclie streets, but will remain open to local traffic, and emergency vehicles will continue to have access throughout the project.

The City notes reconstruction will have some impact on popular destinations like Couchiching Beach Park. While access to the park will stay open through Terry Fox Circle, parking near the Jarvis Street entrance will be limited. The City says it is working with event organizers to minimize disruption and provide alternative access and parking plans during special events.

Public transit is also affected. The Laclie route will be detoured around the construction zone, and three regular bus stops along Jarvis Street will be temporarily out of service. Three new stops will be added for the duration of the closure.

The work is being completed by North Rock Group and was approved by council as part of the city’s 2025 capital budget.

Alongside the Jarvis Street project, residents can expect other road and sidewalk improvements across Orillia this season. Road resurfacing is planned for parts of Fittons Road, West Street, King Street, Line 15 North, and sections of Mississaga Street West. Sidewalk replacements are also scheduled for several streets, including Gill, East, James, Bay, and Brant.

The city says property owners will be notified ahead of construction in their area. Updates on the Jarvis Street project and other city work are available online.