Argyle Street Redevelopment

The City of Port Alberni is preparing for significant redevelopment work on Argyle Street beginning September 2026.

Stretching from Harbour Road to 3rd Avenue, the project will replace aging underground systems (water and storm), improve pedestrian safety, and enhance the overall public experience of this vital corridor once completed.

The Argyle Street Redevelopment Project is a major investment in Port Alberni’s downtown core. In June of 2025, city council approved $6.375 million to fund this critical infrastructure work. The work is expected to come in under budget.

Project Timelines

Work is expected to take place between 7:00am - 5:00pm, Mondays to Fridays.

Week of October 19th
Construction moves to the north side of Argyle Street between 2nd and 3rd Avenues for the installation of new storm water mains. Westbound traffic will be temporarily closed while eastbound traffic will remain open. Argyle Street between 1st and 2nd Avenues will be re-opened as crews move material from that area.

Week of September 21st
Excavation for gas line work begins on the south side of Argyle Street, from 1st to 2nd Avenues, progressing to 3rd Avenue.

Week of September 14th
Project setup begins. Crew vehicles will be stored at the Kingsway Avenue parking lot (behind Carmoor building).

Project Benefits

• Replacement of aging underground water and storm infrastructure.
• Separation of combined sewers to improve system capacity and reduce environmental risk.
• Installation of multimodal travel lanes to support cycling, walking, and accessible transportation (including a link to the Quay-to-Quay Pathway).
• Enhanced pedestrian safety features, including curb bump outs and improved crossings.
• Addition of new street trees and enhanced landscaping to create a greener, more vibrant corridor.
• Underground relocation of BC Hydro services to reduce visual clutter.
• Placemaking and streetscape enhancements designed to create a more welcoming and vibrant public space.
• Conversion of on‑street parking from angled to parallel, with additional angled parking being added to nearby streets to ensure no net loss of parking stalls.
  
  

Construction Impacts

Traffic & Access

In construction zones, traffic will be reduced to a single lane in both directions. Vehicle, cycling, pedestrian, and accessible transportation access will be maintained during construction, with traffic control personnel on site to help safely guide the public. Access to all businesses and residences will be maintained during construction.

Parking

Parking will be temporarily unavailable in active construction zones. Motorists are encouraged to utilize the new parking spaces that have been added to surrounding side streets.

Temporary Disruptions

Notice of temporary disruptions to traffic, access, or City services will be shared in advance, barring emergency circumstances. Every effort will be made to minimize the duration of any disruption. Our contractor is responsible for providing a minimum of 48 hours’ notice to impacted customers of utility disruptions.

Other Impacts

Expect construction noise, construction dust, and the presence of large vehicles.

Thank you for your understanding as we complete this transformative project!

Conceptual of Argyle Street looking east

Conceptual of Argyle Street looking west