The City of Thunder Bay is thrilled to announce the launch of Phase 2 of the Reimagine Victoriaville project, a transformative initiative to foster growth, enhance community spaces, and revitalize downtown Fort William.

The ambitious project includes the removal of Victoriaville Mall and renovations to the Victoriaville Civic Centre, Court Services, and private buildings within the mall, as well as the reopening of Victoria Avenue to vehicular traffic from Archibald Street to Brodie Street. These improvements aim to restore connectivity and create a vibrant, dynamic core. The tender for this project is available on January 25 and is set to close on March 11. Construction is planned to begin in April 2025, with substantial completion by October 2026.

The plan features two new public plazas—north of Victoria Avenue to Justice Avenue and south to Syndicate Avenue South—and upgrades to underground watermains and storm sewer systems.

Community Collaboration Drives Final Plans

In summer 2024, the City and project team engaged with the Downtown Fort William Revitalization Committee, stakeholders, property owners, and tenants to refine construction and renovation plans based on their feedback.

“This project is about more than removing an aging structure; it’s about enhancing the vitality in our downtown, improving infrastructure, and creating a space for everyone,” said Aaron Ward, Manager of Engineering. “Collaboration has been key to building a foundation for a revitalized downtown.”

A Vision for a Modern Downtown

The project will transform Victoria Avenue into a dynamic corridor for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers, complemented by vibrant public plazas on Syndicate Avenue.

Timeline at a glance:

  • Spring 2025: Building renovations and Victoriaville Centre deconstruction begin.
  • Spring 2026: Reconstruction of Victoria Avenue and public plaza development starts.
  • Fall 2026: Project completion.

Community feedback has guided the project. Multiple engagement rounds revealed strong support for removing the Victoriaville Centre and restoring Victoria Avenue. The first phase concluded in October 2020, with City Council approving the complete removal of the mall.

“We are excited that construction is planned to begin soon! The Reimagine Victoriaville project will renew downtown Fort William, fostering economic growth, community pride, and sustainability,” said Stephen Margarit, Downtown Fort William Revitalization Committee Chair. “It’s a bold step towards a more connected and inclusive city.”

For more information, visit: www.thunderbay.ca/getinvolved

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Contact:          Stacey Levanen, Supervisor – Corporate Communications & Community Engagement, 807-625-3650