Beginning June 26, 2026, the City of Yellowknife will undertake a major sewage forcemain replacement project along 50 Avenue between 45 Street and the new lift station currently under construction near School Draw Avenue.
This project will replace a critical section of underground wastewater infrastructure that supports the safe and reliable operation of the City's wastewater system. Construction activities will include excavation, installation of new piping, construction of an underground chamber, mechanical works, and site restoration. Blasting and rock removal may also be required during portions of the project.
To maximize productivity during the short northern construction season and reduce the overall project timeline, construction activities will occur seven days per week between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. There may be occasions when work extends until 11:00 p.m.
The project will require phased closures along 50 Avenue and will result in temporary traffic, transit, and active transportation detours.
Transit Detours
All transit routes will be affected for the duration of the summer construction period, from June 26 to August 30, 2026.
To accommodate these changes, schedules posted at bus stops will be updated on June 21 and 22. Residents are encouraged to use the Passio GO! app for the most up-to-date route and schedule information. Revised transit routes will also be available on the City's Bus Routes and Schedules page.
Phase 1 Traffic and Active Transportation Detours
Residents are asked to follow all posted signage and traffic control measures when travelling through the area.
Phase 1 of construction will include:
• Complete closure of the intersection at 44 Street and 50 Avenue.
• Residents travelling to and from Old Town will be detoured via School Draw Avenue, 44 Street, and 52 Avenue.
• Residents travelling between Niven and Old Town will continue to have access to and from Niven Drive via 50 Avenue.
• Residents travelling from downtown to Niven will be able to use 49 Avenue.
• A temporary lane will be installed at the exit from 49 Avenue to Niven Drive to accommodate both left- and right-turn movements onto Niven Drive.
• An all-way stop will be installed at the intersection of 49 Avenue and Niven Drive to help motorists navigate the temporary traffic pattern.
• Parking will be prohibited on 49 Avenue between 45 Street and Niven Drive for the duration of this detour phase.
Pedestrian and Cyclist Access
Pedestrians and cyclists travelling to and from Old Town will be directed to use the north side of 50 Avenue (Fritz Theil Park side).
Additional crosswalks to support safe movement through the area during construction will be installed at:
• 45 Street and 50 Avenue
• 43 Street and 50 Avenue
The City recognizes that construction activity can be disruptive, particularly along one of Yellowknife’s key transportation corridors, and appreciates the patience and cooperation of residents, businesses, and commuters. This work, while temporary in nature, represents a long-term investment in the health and resilience of the community and will help ensure essential services remain reliable for years to come. The public is encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and follow all posted traffic control signage and directions from on-site traffic control personnel.
Updates will be provided regularly as the project advances through each phase on the City’s Construction page. Information on traffic impacts, transit detours, active transportation routes, and other project updates is available on the City’s Transit Information page.