Human remains discovered along Dallas Road during construction last week near Ogden Point will be reburied by First Nations leaders.

Officials from the City of Victoria, Esquimalt First Nation, Songhees Nation and provincial archeologists met on Thursday after construction crews uncovered ancient human remains near Montreal Street and Dallas Road.

"We won't know (the extent of the burial site) until we open up the ground," said Sam, adding the bones were found about 80 centimetres below the surface. A similar discovery was made in the same area in 2009.

Excavation will take place in conjunction with the B.C. Archeology branch, and the remains will be reburied next to a nearby plaque commemorating the earlier discovery.

Sam said the area has long been known as a rich archeological site, and he is confident the remains will be dealt with in a respectful manner.

"I have to give kudos to Mayor (Dean) Fortin and the City, they are one of the best municipalities to work with in these situations," Sam said.

Under provincial law, the City of Victoria is responsible for archeological costs.

Work at the site is expected to resume once the human remains are relocated.

dpalmer@vicnews.com