Collingwood, ON [24 March 2026] – The Town is pleased to announce that Trisan Construction has been awarded the tender for the Sixth Street Infrastructure Project. This significant investment will renew aging underground infrastructure, improve water supply and pressure to the Town’s west side, and deliver important upgrades to sidewalks, curbs, and cycle tracks to enhance active transportation, safety, and accessibility for all residents. Renewal of all infrastructure is part of responsible long-term asset management planning. We’re updating the infrastructure to align with current design guidelines and best practices.
As this project moves forward, the Town recognizes the vital role trees play in the health and character of the community. Trees enhance neighbourhood beauty, provide shade, improve air quality, and contribute to overall well-being. The Town has heard residents’ concerns about the trees affected by this project and wishes to reassure the community that protecting and enhancing the urban forest remains a key priority. A comprehensive plan is in place to replace and expand tree coverage as part of this project and going forward.
To complete this essential work, 40 trees along the corridor need to be removed. While some of these trees are already in poor condition, the Town acknowledges that the loss of any tree can feel significant to residents.
“We understand that residents are upset about the trees that need to be removed to allow this important project to move forward, and we share in that concern,” says Mayor Yvonne Hamlin. “We’ve heard loud and clear how deeply our community values protecting and growing our tree canopy. That’s why Council has committed to replacing these trees at a 3:1 ratio and advancing the goals of our Urban Forest Management Plan. We want residents to know that we care about our trees just as much as they do, and we are taking meaningful, long-term steps to ensure our urban forest continues to thrive.”
What’s Being Done to Protect and Restore Trees
Three new trees for every one removed: A total of 120 new trees will be planted, demonstrating the Town’s strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
Healthy and sustainable plantings: New trees will be 50mm in diameter, the size with the highest survival rate, and will include a three-year warranty to ensure they thrive.
Thoughtful timing: Tree removals are scheduled for April, with some new trees anticipated to be planted as early as fall 2026.
Creative replanting options: Forty (40) trees will be replanted within the project area. The remaining eighty (80) trees will be offered to nearby property owners or planted on adjacent streets and parks, including Fifth Street, Seventh Street, Walnut Street Park, and Kinsmen Park.
“The replacement strategy focuses on ‘right tree, right place.’ That means we’re not just planting more trees; we’re planting the right species in locations where they have enough space to grow, won’t conflict with infrastructure or utilities, and can thrive long-term,” says Donald Cameron, Forestry Coordinator.
“We’re also increasing species diversity including native species and selecting trees that are more resilient to climate change and urban stress. The goal is to have a healthier, more sustainable urban forest over time, not just replacing numbers, but improving overall canopy quality and resilience.”
Residents are encouraged to follow project updates on the Sixth Street Reconstruction project page: https://engage.collingwood.ca/sixth-street-reconstruction
To learn more about the Urban Forest Management Plan including completed actions and what’s upcoming as well as information on tree maintenance on public land, planting initiatives including Canopy Collingwood, and other resources, visit: https://www.collingwood.ca/health-well-being/parks-trails-amenities/trees-natural-areas
