Cambridge moves ahead with major infrastructure project in city’s north end

File photo. (CTV Kitchener)

The City of Cambridge is advancing a key priority in its Strategic Plan by investing in infrastructure that will support future community building and economic growth, according to officials.

In partnership with the Region of Waterloo and the Township of Woolwich, Cambridge is installing a sanitary trunk sewer along Middle Block Road to service hundreds of acres of business, industrial and residential lands in the city’s north end.

Construction is already underway on the new sewer line, which will run from Intermarket Road to Fountain Street. Officials say the infrastructure project is seen as a critical investment to support new businesses, homes and future employment lands near the Region of Waterloo International Airport.

“While we may not control the economy, we can shape the future of our city while still keeping it in mind,” said Cambridge Mayor Jan Liggett in a media release. “By moving forward with the sanitary trunk sewer upgrade, we are making strategic investments to ensure the city’s infrastructure is ready for what lies ahead.”

Liggett noted shovel-ready projects like this one position the city to qualify for future federal and provincial stimulus funding.

Cambridge’s population is projected to grow to 215,000 by 2051. Officials say the infrastructure expansion will help accommodate that growth, creating jobs and attracting local investment across the region.

“This collaborative effort allows us to grow across Waterloo Region, bringing critical capacity online for both housing and employment lands,” said Regional Chair Karen Redman. “This means new homes, good paying jobs and the ability to accommodate the growth in both our cities and townships.”

Woolwich Mayor Sandy Shantz called the project a major milestone in a collaborative effort more than two decades in the making.

“The installation of trunk sanitary infrastructure, starting in Cambridge and continuing into Woolwich and Breslau, is the result of strong partnerships and a joint commitment to the future of our Region,” said Shantz. “This development will open the door to sustainable growth and opportunity, benefiting not just Woolwich, but the entire Region of Waterloo.”

Middle Block Road is fully closed between Riverbank Drive and Fountain Street until mid-summer to accommodate construction. A detour route is in place and signage has been posted to assist motorists.

The project, valued at $3.8 million, is expected to be completed by late July 2025.

More information is available at cambridge.ca/roadwork.