The Victoriaville Centre’s time as a notable landmark in downtown Fort William is coming to an end.
The Reimagine Victoriaville Project is set to enter Phase Three, marking the start of the removal of the centre.
Part of the work will also include reconnecting Victoria Avenue and revitalizing the roadway along with Syndicate Avenue.
Once the work is complete, Victoria Avenue will be reopened to vehicle traffic, and bike lanes and widened sidewalks, as well as public seating areas will be installed.
Green spaces, seating areas, and pedestrian pathways are being added along Syndicate Avenue as well.
The city of Thunder Bay held a groundbreaking ceremony for the project on Thursday.
“This groundbreaking is more than the start of construction; it’s the beginning of a new chapter for downtown Fort William,” said Mayor Ken Boshcoff. “Reimagining Victoriaville reflects our commitment to revitalizing the downtown, supporting local businesses, and creating a space where the community can flourish.”
Construction is set to begin in early June, starting with the installation of temporary access for affected businesses, followed by the deconstruction of the mall structure.
“So, probably in about six weeks, that’s when the actual deconstruction work will start, so people will probably see some fencing, some cranes, the roof removal will be the first thing,” explained Chair of the Downtown Fort William Revitalization Committee, Stephen Margarit. “It’s not like a wrecking ball.”
“This isn’t, you know, an implosion or anything. It’s going to be a slower process of dismantling everything, seeing if there’s anything that can be recycled or reused.”
All businesses and services currently accessed through Victoriaville will continue to be open throughout the construction period.
“Our team has worked diligently to ensure that this project enhances the business area and also the quality of life for residents and visitors, in addition to renewing essential infrastructure,” said Thunder Bay’s Manager of Engineering, Aaron Ward. “We’re excited to see the positive impact this revitalization will have on the community.”
The project is being led by the city of Thunder Bay in partnership with Colliers Project Leaders, who are providing overall project management.
The design team includes KGS Group, i4Architecture, and Scatliff + Miller + Murray, and the general contractor for the construction phase is Finn Way General Contractor Inc.
“Tearing down Victoriaville, opening up the streets, is not going to change everything,” added Margarit. “We see this as a first step. We see this as a catalyst for change in the area. You know, there are already new businesses moving into downtown Fort William, you’re starting to see some of those changes.”
Updates as construction progresses, as well as access routes for local businesses, and more information can be found by clicking here.
Once the Victoriaville Centre is demolished, the city is hoping road reconstruction will start by Fall 2026.
Landscaping and seating areas are currently scheduled to be completed by summer 2027.
