Drivers may experience increasing traffic delays in downtown Victoria as the city is currently undergoing construction on one of its major arteries. 

Roadwork along Blanshard Street, aimed at improving safety, accessibility, and transportation, will cause lane reductions and traffic delays throughout January. 

Among other things, crews will pour concrete curbs, sidewalks, and medians between Yates and Johnson streets affecting traffic flow until Jan. 19. Accessible pedestrian detours will be in place.

On Tuesday, Jan. 7, a traffic signal shutdown at Blanshard and Fisgard Street will reduce travel to one lane in each direction from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., with flaggers directing traffic. On Wednesday, similar disruptions will take place at the Blanshard-Caledonia intersection and at the Blanshard-Pandora intersection on Jan. 16.

The upgrades, scheduled for completion in spring 2025, include repaving, traffic signal improvements, protected bike lanes, safer crosswalks, accessibility features, and landscaping enhancements. 

The City of Victoria advises drivers and pedestrians to plan for delays, use caution near construction zones, and consider alternative routes.