Towne Square transformation to revitalize the heart of Downtown Oakville

Phased construction will keep the downtown open for business and to visitors while enhancing a popular community destination

The Town of Oakville is preparing to begin construction on the highly-anticipated Towne Square Revitalization Project – a $7.5 million investment that will transform one of the community’s most cherished public spaces into a more accessible, vibrant, and welcoming destination for residents and visitors.

Located in the heart of Downtown Oakville, Towne Square has been a gathering place for 35-plus years. Its revitalization is considered a legacy project to enhance a community hub that supports local businesses, hosts community events, and provides an inviting space for people of all ages to connect, relax, and celebrate. The project was originally approved for reconstruction in 2018 but paused due to the pandemic in 2020.

Construction is tentatively scheduled to begin the week of September 14, 2026, and will be completed in carefully planned phases designed to maintain access to downtown businesses, residences, and activities throughout the project. A holiday season pause is tentatively planned for November 2026, with work expected to resume (weather permitting) in Q1 2027. The project is scheduled to be completed in September 2027.

Visitors can look forward to a refreshed and modern public square creating a greener, more comfortable and inclusive destination. Enhanced features include:

• Amphitheatre-style seating for community gatherings and events;
• A distinctive water feature, raised planters and seating areas, new trees and enhanced landscaping, and an updated central lawn; and
• Decorative lighting and new accessible paving throughout the space.

Keeping the downtown open during construction

A key priority of Town staff and Council is to ensure Downtown Oakville remains open, accessible, and vibrant throughout the project. The phased construction approach was developed to support businesses, residents, and visitors while minimizing disruption and managing noise and dust as much as possible. Extended work hours will be limited to only when needed and construction staging and worker parking will be moved off-site to reduce congestion in the downtown core.

Decorative hoarding will surround active construction zones while maintaining safe access to businesses through designated entry/exit points. Wayfinding signage will help navigate the site for visitors and locate open businesses and amenities. Businesses in an active construction area will remain open and accessible throughout the project.

The Downtown Oakville BIA has announced its annual Holiday Tree Lighting will continue at Towne Square for the 2026 holiday season. The BIA also plans to host its winter events at Centennial Square, 120 Navy Street. A portion of George Street between Lakeshore Road East and Church Street will be closed from spring 2027 to the end of construction to accommodate other downtown events and activities wherever possible. Access to the CIBC parking lot and Municipal Lot 3 will remain open.

The Town will continue working closely with local business owners, residents, and community partners during the construction period to ensure they stay informed and impacts are minimized as the work progresses.   

To learn more and stay up to date on construction milestones, visit the Towne Square Revitalization Project page. Questions about the project can be directed to ServiceOakville at service@oakville.ca or 905-845-6601.

Quote

“The Towne Square revitalization will create an even more welcoming and vibrant gathering place for residents, visitors, and local businesses to enjoy for years to come.” 

– Mayor Rob Burton

Background

• The Millennium Tower Clock in Towne Square will be removed and placed in storage before construction begins and returned once construction is completed.
• In October 2025, Council approved a project pause for additional public consultation with businesses and the community. Staff worked closely with local businesses, the Downtown Oakville BIA, community partners, and interested parties to better understand construction impacts to the downtown area.
• On May 26, 2026, Council approved an “Optimal Phasing Plan” for the Towne Square Revitalization Project presented by Parks and Open Space staff. The plan is reflective of direct input and feedback from local businesses, community partners, and interested parties. It includes measures to reduce construction impacts, accommodate events, and keep businesses and residents informed while work is underway.