Final decision in sight for potential Victoria Street encampment bylaw

A controversial bylaw is set to hit the floor of Region of Waterloo council, focused on the future of the Victoria-Weber encampment, located in Kitchener, and the upcoming construction of the Kitchener Central Transit Hub (KCTH) planned by the upper-tier municipality.

It’s a move that has been discussed since the initial plans for the transit hub were first brought forward, with the over $35 million project set to bring a new pedestrian bridge, a loop for Grand River Transit (GRT) buses, and an overall economic boost to Kitchener in the process.

Construction for the KCTH is currently expected to begin in March 2026, set to be finished in 2029, and officially unveiled a year later.

While the development itself hasn’t created much controversy or discussion, the location of the project has created a stir amongst members of the public.

As of now, around 35 residents currently live on the site in tents and various domiciles, with the site-specific bylaw would see the removal of all living in the area, making it illegal for future living. It would also set up fines of up to $5,000 for anyone found in violation of the bylaw.

The motion for the bylaw states, “That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo direct staff to implement a plan for alternative accommodation for current residents of 100 Victoria Street North, Kitchener, and add $814,333 to the 2025 regional Housing budget.”

It’s set to be discussed at a meeting on Wednesday, April 23, with a public session beginning at 7 p.m. Various voices are expected to be heard, with 19 delegates from across Waterloo Region currently set to speak on the issues.

Currently, those delegates include various residents from across the local community as well as members from various organizations, including Wilfrid Laurier University, the Social Development Centre of Waterloo Region, Waterloo Region Community Legal Services, and more.

If enacted, the bylaw would roll out on Nov. 30, making it illegal for anyone to live on the site as of Dec. 1.

City staff have previously said they’re doing everything they can to aid in the transition of those living on the site, saying they’ve expanded the total number of available accessible shelter beds in the city. They’ve also said that the seven-month window before the bylaw would kick could allow further efforts to aid the homeless population.

The final decision on the site-specific bylaw is expected to be made by regional council before the session comes to a close, with the meeting set to begin at 5:30 p.m. at 150 Frederick St., and the public portion expected to get rolling at 7 p.m.