Phase One of Inverness Central Avenue Rebuild Project

Construction Set to Begin on Phase One of Inverness Central Avenue Rebuild Project

The Municipality of Inverness County is taking an important step toward modernizing critical infrastructure in the community of Inverness. Phase One of the Central Avenue Rebuild Project is set to begin late June following the recent award of a construction tender to Brilun Construction Ltd.

Central Avenue Rebuild is one component of a broader generational investment in infrastructure improvements throughout the community of Inverness. Related projects include:

• A new Inverness wastewater treatment plant – construction to be completed by fall 2026.
• Replacement of a portion of the Inverness wastewater treatment plant outfall pipe responsible for transporting treated wastewater from the Inverness wastewater treatment plant into the Gulf o St. Lawrence) – completed April 2025.

Together, these investments are helping renew aging infrastructure, improve environmental performance, enhance safety and accessibility, and support future growth in the community.

With the tender awarded, Central Avenue Rebuild will involve a full reconstruction of Central Avenue, including:

• New water and wastewater piping and associated infrastructure.
• Replacement of an existing wastewater lift station located near the Central Avenue trail crossing.
• Improved sidewalks, multi-use paths, and crosswalks.
• Streetscape and beautification enhancements.
• A fully reconstructed roadway with upgraded stormwater systems, delivered in partnership with the Nova Scotia Department of Public Works.

Project Timeline

• Phase One extends from the intersection of Broad Cove Banks Road to James Street.
• Construction is expected to begin late June and continue through December 2026.
• Future phases are planned to continue from James Street to the Inverness County Centre for the Arts (ICCA) driveway and include additional infrastructure upgrades, such as a new wastewater lift station at the ICCA driveway. The timing and scope of future phases will depend on market volatility and contractor availability.

“Reaching this construction milestone reflects the dedication and cooperation of many partners who have worked together to make this project possible,” said Keith MacDonald, Chief Administrative Officer, Municipality of Inverness County. “From regulators at all levels of government to utility providers, landowners, and technical teams, a tremendous amount of planning and coordination has been required to get to this point. The start of construction is an important milestone and a testament to the collaborative effort behind this project. The Municipality is excited to see this project move into the construction phase.”

What Residents Can Expect

Construction will create temporary impacts for residents, businesses, commuters, and visitors. The Municipality will work closely with the contractor to minimize disruptions wherever possible and maintain access to homes, businesses, and community facilities throughout construction.

Additional information regarding construction schedules, traffic impacts, detours, and project milestones will be shared as details are confirmed.

MacDonald added, “This investment will replace aging infrastructure, improve safety and accessibility, and support the long-term needs of our community. While construction will bring temporary disruptions, we are committed to keeping residents informed every step of the way.”

Stay Informed

The Municipality will be hosting a public open house, with the date and location to be announced in the coming weeks.

Residents and businesses are encouraged to stay informed through the following resources:

Central Avenue Rebuild Project Webpage – www.invernesscounty.ca/CentralAveRebuild

• Central source for project information.
• Construction updates and project milestones.
• Frequently asked questions.
• Contact information for project inquiries.

Project Newsletter

• Sign up to receive project updates directly in your inbox here: Central Avenue Rebuild Project Newsletter
• Subscription is also available through the project webpage.

Project Information Centre – Inverness Fire Hall, 15797 Central Ave., Inverness

• Visit during posted hours to speak directly with a Municipal representative and ask questions about the project.
• Drop-in dates and times will be shared once confirmed.

Project Funding

This Central Avenue Rebuild project is funded through a partnership between municipal, provincial, and federal governments under the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.  The total for the project is $8,355,733, with the Municipality covering $1.87 million.

BACKGROUNDER

Why the Central Avenue Rebuild Project is Needed

A 2019 assessment of the Municipality’s water and wastewater systems identified significant concerns with aging infrastructure along the corridor.

The assessment found that key infrastructure assets had reached the end of their service life and were at increasing risk of failure. Without replacement, these conditions could lead to service disruptions, environmental impacts, and public health concerns.

Central Avenue Rebuild Project Benefits

Once complete, the project will provide:

• Reliable water and wastewater services.
• Reduced risk of service interruptions and infrastructure failures.
• Improved pedestrian safety and accessibility.
• Enhanced streetscape and community appearance.
• Increased infrastructure capacity to support future growth and development.

Whycocomagh Boil Water Advisory Update – June 10, 2026

The Municipality of Inverness County is providing an update related to the ongoing Whycocomagh boil water advisory.

Leak Detection Work Ongoing:

Leak detection work will continue throughout today, June 10, and likely into the overnight hours. Leak detection work involves looking for areas where water is leaking from the system by checking for drops in pressure or certain sounds. Members of the team will be wearing high visibility vests.  When this work is underway, water pressure may be reduced temporarily.

Water Pick-Up & Voucher Programs Reminder

Water distribution and voucher pick-up will continue until the boil water advisory is lifted.

Upcoming Pick-Up Dates:

• Wednesday, June 10
• Friday, June 12

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Location: Whycocomagh Volunteer Fire Department, 9519 Trans Canada Highway, Whycocomagh

Impacted residents may collect one four-litre jug of drinking water per person, to a maximum of three jugs per household:

• One-person household: one jug (4 litres)
• Two-person household: two jugs (8 litres)
• Three or more people: three jugs (12 litres)

Please note: Friday, June 12 will be a double pick-up day to ensure residents have enough drinking water for the weekend.

Residents may also collect a water voucher during the distribution period. Vouchers can be redeemed at the Whycocomagh Co-op for bottled drinking water.

Residents requiring assistance with water or voucher pick-up are asked to contact the Municipality’s Public Works Department at 1-866-258-0223, option 4.

Updates will continue to be shared on the Municipality’s website and Facebook page. Residents are encouraged to check these sources regularly for the latest information.

To learn more, visit https://invernesscounty.ca/whycocomaghboilwateradvisory/

Whycocomagh Public Library Open

New Library Opens in Whycocomagh

The Municipality of Inverness County, in partnership with the Eastern Counties Regional Library (ECRL) are pleased to announce that the Whycocomagh Public Library has opened its doors to the community.

Located in the lower level of the Whycocomagh Waterfront Centre (9650 Hwy 105), the new public library will integrate ECRL library services, visitor information, and municipal services and programming in a welcoming space.

Hours and Services:

The Whycocomagh Public Library will be open during the following hours this summer:

• Monday – Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• Thursday: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
• Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• Saturday: 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• Sunday: closed

The hours are designed to give the public ample opportunity to enjoy the community space and access the available services.

Visitors to the library can access standard ECRL services including:

• Registration of new ECRL library cards & reregistration of older accounts
• Circulation services – Book, DVD, and audiobook borrowing

As well as creative and design services such as:

• Black and white printing and photocopying
• 3D printing and design
• Laser engraving
• Vinyl cutting
• Use of a Cricut® machine

The Whycocomagh Public Library will also have a space devoted to a Visitor Information Centre for visitors to Inverness County throughout the year.

“Libraries are public spaces that welcome everyone,” says Warden Bonny MacIsaac, Municipality of Inverness County. “This new library will be a place where people can learn, connect, access services, and build community together. We are proud to support a model that expands access to library services while creating a vibrant gathering place for Whycocomagh, We’koqma’q and surrounding communities.”

“Eastern Counties Regional Libraries is pleased to partner in opening this new library in Whycocomagh,” says James Fuller, Chair of Eastern Counties Regional Library. “We look forward to serving Whycocomagh, We’koqma’q and area for years to come.”

For questions about the library, drop in during operating hours, or contact:

• By phone: 1-902-631-2078
• E-mail:  whycocomagh@ecrl.ca.
• Visit ecrl.ca/locations/whycocomagh-public-library

Details are underway to plan a grand opening event, scheduled for Saturday, June 27. More details will be shared once confirmed.

Whycocomagh Boil Water Advisory Update – June 8, 2026

Boil Water Advisory Expected to Remain in Place Until June 19

Boil Water Advisory for Whycocomagh Expected to Remain in Place Until June 19

The Municipality of Inverness County is providing an update on the boil water advisory affecting users of the Whycocomagh Water System.

As of June 4, the boil water advisory remains in place. Following a recent inspection of the wells, it is anticipated that the advisory will remain in effect until approximately June 19.

“We understand the impact this advisory is having on residents and families in our community, and we appreciate the patience and understanding that everyone has shown,” said Melanie Beaton, Deputy CAO, Municipality of Inverness County, “While this update means the advisory will remain in place longer than we had hoped, identifying the source of the problem is an important step toward resolving it. We remain committed to keeping residents informed and restoring normal water service as soon as it is safe to do so.”

Cause of the Advisory

The Whycocomagh Water System is supplied by two wells (Production Well 1 and Production Well 2) that were installed in the 1970s and are approximately 300 feet deep.

A camera inspection conducted earlier this week revealed cracks and holes in the casing of Production Well 2, approximately 160 feet below ground.

As a result, silt and sediment are entering the well and causing turbidity (cloudiness).

The Solution

Short-term: The short-term solution involves shutting down Production Well 2 and installing an ultraviolet (UV) disinfection system at the Whycocomagh Water Treatment Plant to treat water from Production Well 1 and ensure it is safe for consumption. In addition, a consultant will investigate the water system for leaks requiring repair.

Long-term: A senior hydrologist is currently identifying a suitable location for two new water supply wells near the existing wells. Once a site is selected, the new wells will be drilled.

Expected Timeline

Production Well 2 has been isolated from the system.

Installation of the UV disinfection system may take approximately two weeks, pending contractor availability. Once the system is installed and water testing confirms compliance with environmental regulations, the boil water advisory will be lifted.

It is too early to predict a timeline for the long-term solution.

Support for Residents

The Municipality will continue to provide drinking water and water vouchers to Whycocomagh Water System users. To help ensure residents have an adequate supply of water for the weekend, the upcoming water distribution will be considered a double collection.

Water Pick-Up Details

Date: Friday, June 5
Time: 3:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Location: Whycocomagh Volunteer Fire Department, 9519 Trans Canda Highway, Whycocomagh

Impacted residents may collect two four-litre jugs of drinking water per person, to a maximum of six jugs per household:

• One-person household: two jugs (8 litres)
• Two-person household: four jugs (16 litres)
• Three or more people: six jugs (24 litres)

Water Voucher Program

In addition to the water pick-up program, the Municipality continues to partner with the Whycocomagh Co-op to provide water vouchers.

During the water pick-up, residents may collect a voucher that can be redeemed at the Whycocomagh Co-op (9402 Highway 105, Whycocomagh) for bottled drinking water.

The voucher program provides one four-litre jug of drinking water per person, to a maximum of three jugs per household:

• One-person household: one jug (4 litres)
• Two-person household: two jugs (8 litres)
• Three or more people: three jugs (12 litres)

Reminders

• Residents requiring assistance with water or voucher pick-up are asked to contact the Municipality’s Public Works Department at 1-866-258-0223, option 4.
• Updates will continue to be shared on invernesscounty.ca and on the Municipality’s Facebook page. Residents are encouraged to check these sources regularly for the latest information.
• Residents with additional questions may contact the Municipality’s Public Works Department at 1-866-258-0223, option 4 or email Publicworks@invernesscounty.ca .
• To learn more, visit Whycocomagh Boil Water Advisory Update | Municipality of the County of Inverness .

Background

The Municipality of Inverness County issued a boil water advisory on May 22, 2026 for the Whycocomagh Water System due to elevated turbidity levels that caused slight discolouration of the water. As a precaution, residents are advised to boil water before using it for drinking or food preparation.

Port Hood Lift Station Replacement Traffic Disruption to Continue

Port Hood, Nova Scotia – Work continues on the replacement of the Port Hood Wastewater Lift Station located at the corner of Main St. and Convent St.

Traffic control measures were put in place on May 25, reducing a portion of Main St. (in front of 375 Main St.) to one lane of traffic. These traffic control measures are expected to remain in place for the next two weeks (until June 19).

Motorists can expect minimal delays; however, they are encouraged to allow extra travel time when driving through the area.  If additional time is required, an update will be provided.

The Municipality thanks residents and motorists for their patience and cooperation during this work.

To learn more about the Port Hood Lift Station Replacement Project, visit Port Hood Wastewater Lift Station Replacement | Municipality of the County of Inverness .

Whycocomagh Boil Water Advisory Update – June 1, 2026

Whycocomagh, N.S. – The boil water advisory remains in effect for users of the Whycocomagh water system as of June 1, 2026.

To support Whycocomagh water system users, the Municipality is continuing its drinking water pick-up, and water voucher programs, hosting two opportunities to collect this week.

Water Pick-Up Details:

Dates: Monday, June 1, and Wednesday, June 3, 2026
Time: 3:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Location: Whycocomagh Volunteer Fire Department, 9519 Trans Canda Highway, Whycocomagh

 Impacted residents may collect one four-litre jugs of drinking water per person, to a maximum of three jugs per household:

• One-person household: one jug (4 litres)
• Two-person household: two jugs (8 litres)
• Three or more people: three jugs (12 litres)

Water Voucher Program: 

During the June 1 and June 3 water pick-ups, residents may collect a one-time use voucher to be redeemed at the Whycocomagh Co-op (9402 Highway 105, Whycocomagh) for bottled water.

The voucher program will provide one four-litre jug of drinking water per person, to a maximum of three jugs per household:

• One-person household: one jug (4 litres)
• Two-person household: two jugs (8 litres)
• Three or more people: three jugs (12 litres)

Vouchers may only be redeemed at the Whycocomagh Co-op location.

Reminders: 

• Residents requiring assistance with water or voucher pick-up are asked to contact the Municipality’s Public Works Department at 1-866-258-0223, option 4.
• If the boil water advisory remains in effect on Friday, June 5, arrangements will be made for another water pick-up.
• Updates will continue to be shared on invernesscounty.ca and on the Municipality’s Facebook page. Residents are encouraged to check these sources regularly for the latest information.
• Residents with additional questions may contact the Municipality’s Public Works Department at 1-866-258-0223, option 4 or email Publicworks@invernesscounty.ca.

The Municipality thanks residents for their continued patience while staff investigate and work to resolve this issue.

Final Bulky Garbage Collection 2026 Update

The Municipality of Inverness County is providing a final update on Bulky Garbage Collection 2026 today, May 29.

Collection will continue until tomorrow, Saturday, May 30, 2026.

Work is currently underway to complete collection in the following areas:

• Chéticamp Island
• Sections of Orangedale area
• Roseburn
• In addition, some side roads in all communities still require collection.

Reminders:

• Garbage bags will not be picked up as part of bulky garbage collection.
• It is the responsibility of residents to clean up any items remaining following bulky garbage pick up.

The Municipality thanks residents for their cooperation and assistance, along with the contractor and Kenloch Waste Management Facility staff for their dedication and support to ensure a successful collection.

Residents with questions or concerns may call 1-866-258-0223, option 1, Monday to Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Messages left after hours will be returned the following business day.

May 28 – Whycocomagh Update – Water Pick-Up and Voucher Program

Whycocomagh Boil Water Advisory Update – Water Pick-Up and Voucher Program

The boil water advisory remains in effect for users of the Whycocomagh water system as of today, May 28, 2026.

The Municipality anticipates the advisory will remain in place through the weekend. Public Works staff are actively investigating the cause in consultation with a senior hydrogeologist and a well drilling company. A camera inspection of the wells is scheduled for early next week.

To support residents during the advisory, the Municipality is continuing its drinking water pick-up program and introducing a water voucher program.

Drinking Water Pick-Up

The Municipality will again partner with the Whycocomagh Volunteer Fire Department on Friday, May 29, to provide an additional water pick-up opportunity to help ensure residents have enough drinking water for the weekend.

Water Pick-Up Details
Date: Friday, May 29
Time: 3:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Location: Whycocomagh Volunteer Fire Department, 9519 Trans Canda Highway, Whycocomagh

Impacted residents may collect two four-litre jugs of drinking water per person, to a maximum of six jugs per household:

• One-person household: two jugs (8 litres)
• Two-person household: four jugs (16 litres)
• Three or more people: six jugs (24 litres)

Water Voucher Program

In addition to the water pick-up program, the Municipality is partnering with the Whycocomagh Co-op to provide water vouchers.

During the Friday, May 29 water pick-up, residents may collect a voucher to be redeemed at the Whycocomagh Co-op (9402 Highway 105, Whycocomagh) for bottled water.

The voucher program will provide one four-litre jug of drinking water per person, to a maximum of three jugs per household:

• One-person household: one jug (4 litres)
• Two-person household: two jugs (8 litres)
• Three or more people: three jugs (12 litres)

Vouchers may only be redeemed at the Whycocomagh Co-op location.

Reminders

• Residents requiring assistance with water or voucher pick-up are asked to contact the Municipality’s Public Works Department at 1-866-258-0223, option 4.
• If the boil water advisory remains in effect on Monday, arrangements will be made for another water pick-up next week.
• Updates will continue to be shared on invernesscounty.ca and on the Municipality’s Facebook page. Residents are encouraged to check these sources regularly for the latest information.
• Residents with additional questions may contact the Municipality’s Public Works Department at 1-866-258-0223, option 4 or email Publicworks@invernesscounty.ca .

The Municipality extends sincere appreciation to the Whycocomagh Volunteer Fire Department and Whycocomagh Co-op for their support and partnership, as well as to the Cape Breton Regional Municipality for assisting with obtaining and transporting water to Whycocomagh. The Municipality also thanks residents for their continued patience while staff investigate the issue.

Background

The Municipality of Inverness County issued a boil water advisory on May 22 for the Whycocomagh water system due to high turbidity, which caused slight discolouration in the water. As a precaution, residents are advised to boil water before using it for drinking or food preparation.

PSA: Boil Water & Water Conservation Advisories Lifted – Whycocomagh

The Municipality of Inverness County advises that the Boil Water Advisory and Water Conservation Directive for users of the Whycocomagh water system have been lifted as of today, May 20, 2026, at 5:45 p.m.

The municipality thanks the community for their patience and cooperation. Please share this message with friends, family, and neighbors who may not receive this notice.