Queen Street in Lakefield to Reopen in Time for the Weekend

The Township of Selwyn is pleased to share that Queen Street in Lakefield is expected to reopen tomorrow Friday, October 24th at 8:00 AM.

Following significant progress on the demolition of the fire-affected structures, the contractor has confirmed that work can safely continue without requiring Queen Street to remain closed. This marks an important step forward in the recovery process for the Village of Lakefield.

While Queen Street will reopen, the demolition site itself will remain fenced off for the contractor to complete the work and to backfill the lots to create a level and safe site. The sidewalk in front of the affected area will remain closed. To provide safe pedestrian movements, the on-street parking spaces directly in front of the site will be converted into a temporary pedestrian walkway, providing a continuous route to the intersection and nearby businesses on this side of the street. 

Burnham Street, including the sidewalk, between Queen Street and Charlotte Street will remain closed as demolition activities continue in the area. However, there will be access from the Charlotte/Burnham Street intersection to the parking area adjacent to Divine Craft. 

Two streetlights on Queen Street immediately adjacent to the affected buildings were removed during fire fighting operations to protect the lighting heads. These will be re-installed once the demolition is complete. 

“Reopening Queen Street represents a positive milestone for our community,” said Mayor Sherry Senis. “Although the streetscape will look very different for some time, we are encouraged by the resilience and spirit that Lakefield continues to demonstrate. We urge residents and visitors to support our local businesses and enjoy the warmth and hospitality that make Lakefield so special.”

Businesses in downtown Lakefield are open and ready to serve customers. The Township encourages everyone to shop local, dine local, and continue showing support for the business owners and staff who have been deeply affected by the recent events.

The Township also wants to highlight some of the initiatives already underway or in development to support Lakefield businesses, including:

• An article in KawarthaNOW highlighting Lakefield’s resilience and community spirit, encouraging residents and visitors to support local businesses, and attend upcoming events;
• The Lakefield Scavenger Hunt – to help drive local engagement;
• Lakefield Ladies Night – a community-focused shopping event;
• Holiday Programming aimed at supporting “shop local” efforts; and
• An upcoming media piece reflecting Selwyn, including Lakefield.

In addition to these supports, Peterborough County and the Township of Selwyn will be working together on an upcoming multimedia campaign for Lakefield to Shop Local, Support Local, and Visit Local. This series will highlight local stores and community groups, and ongoing efforts while encouraging visitors to return and experience all that Lakefield has to offer.

The Township appreciates the community’s patience and understanding as crews complete this critical work safely and efficiently. The Township also extends its gratitude to the demolition crews, emergency responders, Township staff, and community partners who continue to assist in the ongoing recovery efforts.