Overview of the Project
The Bay Street Capital Project is one of the most important infrastructure upgrades in the Town of Antigonish and long overdue. Bay Street serves as a major entry point into the Town from Highway 337, with alternative routes looping around the Cape. This project brings vital improvements to both the function and appearance of the street and systems while enhancing safety, connectivity, and resilience.
By upgrading pipes and roads, improving drainage, and building new trails, this project will create a safer, more connected, and more resilient Bay Street.
Key Improvements:
- Replacement of over 100-year-old water pipes.
- Reconstruction of a failed sewer main near Tim Hortons.
- Realigned street layout for better traffic flow and safer sightlines.
- New accessible sidewalks and a multi-use Active Transporation trail connecting East Main, Adam Street, and the Hospital.
- Road raising near the river to reduce flood risk.
- Relocation of utility poles outside of walkways.
- Improved connections from the north and east to Downtown and the Landing trail.
Funding Partners
The Town has secured a total of $3.476 million in approved funding from Federal and Provincial partners, with additional funding applications pending. Partners and programs include:
| Funding Source | Amount | Purpose |
| ICIP – East Main to Adam | $466,199 | AT trail, curbs, railway crossing |
| ICIP – Bay Street | $1,808,400 | Water, sewer, and storm infrastructure |
| GRID Infrastructure Funding | $1,116,700 | Road realignment, raising, poles |
Pending Approval:
| AT Fund | $547,000 | AT trail on Bay Street |
Timeline
With the 2025–2026 municipal budget now officially approved, the Town of Antigonish will begin work on the Bay Street project right away.
The first step in implementation is the issuance of a public tender. The construction timeline will be shaped by contractor availability and tender responses. More updates on the timeline will be shared once the tender process is complete.
Once a contractor is selected, the following work will be phased in carefully to manage disruptions and ensure access is maintained where it’s needed most, particularly near the hospital.
Step 1: Underground Infrastructure
- Replace aging water mains, sanitary sewer, and stormwater systems.
- Move pipes out of the roadway into a dedicated utility corridor on the bank of the hill.
Step 2: Roadway Re-alignment, Elevation, and Paving
- Rebuild Bay Street with a better layout and slightly raise the roadway near the river for flood mitigation.
Step 3: Utility Pole Relocation
- Move poles out of the sidewalk to improve accessibility and safety.
Step 4: Sidewalk and Trail Construction
- Build new, accessible sidewalks.
- Construct the active transportation trail connecting Adam Street, the hospital, and East Main.
Step 5: Final Landscaping
Finish the surface work, curbs, and greenspace beautification.
Map of Project Area
Concept Renderings
FAQ – Traffic Restrictions and Control Measures
Will Bay Street be closed during construction?
Yes, sections of Bay Street will be temporarily closed in phases. Access to the hospital will be maintained at all times. Given Bay Street’s key role as a connector from Highway 337, traffic management plans are a critical part of the project.
How will traffic be redirected?
Traffic signs will be in place to guide motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians around work zones. Emergency services and transit providers will been consulted to ensure uninterrupted service. Emergency vehicle flow will be prioritized through the worksite.
How will businesses and residents be notified?
Advance notices will be shared on the Town’s website, social media, and XFM radio announcements. Businesses will also be contacted directly to minimize operational impacts.
Will work take place at night?
At this time, the Town does not intend to pursue night work. This decision is based on:
- Proximity to the hospital and concern for patient wellbeing.
- Avoiding disruption to nearby residents.
- Higher costs associated with night shifts.
How will the public stay informed?
Public updates will be provided before each phase begins. The Town is committed to clear and proactive communication throughout the entire project.
