From March 16 to late September, there will be lane closures through Hamilton’s core as city crews work on a watermain under Main Street.

Closures will occur from Main Street W., and Dundurn Street S., to Main Street E., and Victoria Avenue S., the city of Hamilton said in a March 13 news release. “Lane restrictions will be in place and traffic delays are expected.”

Crews will work to “rehabilitate” the watermain to extend its life and help prevent leaks, the city said. It added the work is taking place ahead of the Main Street two-way conversion and road-resurfacing to “minimize future road cuts.”

Officials ask people to keep temporary fire hydrants clear. They say access to all businesses and residences will be maintained.

Eastbound traffic along Main Street W. often builds up at Dundurn Street S., in the morning, as vehicles merge from two different highway off-ramps. Some drivers must cross five lanes in order to make their turns. Lately, construction has blocked lanes just east of the intersection.

The coming Main Street conversion will change the roadway’s design so cars can travel east and west. Proponents of the change have said it will make the street safer by slowing down vehicles, and likely increasing traffic to businesses in the area. The city aims to award a contract for the project late this summer.

A motion suggesting the change was passed in 2022 after 11 pedestrians were killed in vehicle-related accidents from January to May of that year.

Earlier this month, Brian Hollingworth, director of engineering with the city, said he expects the two-way conversion, which will span from Dundurn Street S. to Gage Park, will need up to two years to be completed. It will include road re-surfacing, traffic signal infrastructure, pavement markings and signage.