Restoration of Kitchener Market could take months after July fire
Posted Jul 31, 2026 11:21:27 AM.
Last Updated Jul 31, 2026 11:22:09 AM.
There’s a long road ahead for restoring the Kitchener Market after a fire and the city says it could take months before indoor operations fully resume.
The fire broke out overnight on July 12 in a vendor stall within the downtown market.
While the fire was contained to a relatively small area, officials say smoke, soot and other contaminants spread through the facility, including mechanical and ventilation systems.
The city says staff have been working with public health, restoration specialists and safety experts to assess the damage.
They’ve determined the extensive cleaning, remediation and restoration work will likely take several months to complete.
“We know this timeline is difficult news for vendors whose businesses depend on the Market,” said Andrew Sturgess, Director of Business Growth and Entrepreneurship, in a release. “While we can’t yet say exactly how long the recovery will take, we know it will be measured in months, not weeks. Our commitment is to keep vendors informed, support them however we can, and move this work forward as quickly and safely as possible.”
Sturgess said the city recognizes that market vendors are dealing with significant disruptions to their business.
“We understand the seriousness of this situation, and helping the Market recover as quickly as possible is our highest priority.”
Vendors have now been asked to remove their inventory and equipment from the indoor market by Aug. 19 to help facilitate the recovery work.
The city said vendors will not be charged rent during the restoration period and they can still operate through expanded outdoor market operations, which will be open to the public every Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
