Ira Needles resurfacing to begin this month
Posted Jul 16, 2026 06:12:07 AM.
Last Updated Jul 16, 2026 03:50:02 PM.
A long-awaited facelift for one of the most complained-about roadways in Waterloo Region is set to get underway this month.
The signs are up, and the crews are prepping for road resurfacing to begin on Ira Needles Boulevard starting July 27.
Regional council approved the $4.5 million plan in the spring, with a staff report noting the roadway that connects the expressway to the Boardwalk was “past the point of repairs” and would require an entirely new surface to be safe for drivers.
Repairs on Ira Needles are not a new discussion. For multiple years, the roadway has been named the worst road in Waterloo Region in the CAA’s annual Worst Roads Campaign.
The resurfacing and construction will have lane closures in effect until September this year. During the day, lanes will be partially closed, and overnight, fully shut down.
“During the day (6 a.m. to 9 p.m.), two-way traffic will be maintained with one lane open in each direction. During the night (9 p.m. to 6 a.m.), the road will be fully closed for paving operations,” read an update on the Region’s project page.
“Full overnight closures will only occur when paving is taking place and may not be required every night.”
The paving will take place in stages, working from the south end of Ira Needles by Highway 7/8, through to the Erb Street West roundabout.
Full details on the project can be found here.
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