Watermain replacement project begins near Elk Lake

July 2, 2026

Information Bulletin
For immediate release

Saanich, BC – The District of Saanich is starting underground work in the Royal Oak area to replace a watermain and upgrade utilities, including service connections and fire hydrants.

The existing watermain requires replacement and work is planned to take place over the next six months in four sections. Project completion is anticipated for December 2026.

Crews will start at Cherry Tree Bend, progressing to Elk Lake Drive and underneath the Patricia Bay Highway, finishing at Falaise Drive.

Project Map

See the map below for the order the work will progress:

  1. Cherry Tree Bend (south end)
  2. Elk Lake Drive (between Marsett Place and the Beaver/Elk Lake Park entrance)
  3. Patricia Bay Highway (underneath the highway)
  4. Falaise Drive (north end)

Traffic impacts

During construction, single lane alternating traffic will be in place on Elk Lake Drive, with full closures occurring periodically as required. Construction is scheduled Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Traffic control personnel and signage will be in place. Work underneath the Patricia Bay Highway will not disrupt traffic patterns on the highway.

Residents are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra travel time and use alternate routes where possible. Neighbouring residents will be notified in advance if driveway access will be affected.

Access for the Saanich Strawberry Festival

The 59th annual Saanich Strawberry Festival takes place Sunday, July 5, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Beaver Beach in Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. Construction crews have mobilized at the Elk Lake Road construction site, near the park entrance. While work will not be ongoing during the festival, attendees are advised to proceed with caution near the site.

Please note parking for this event is limited; alternate travel modes are available, including a shuttle bus running from Saanich Commonwealth Place (SCP), public transit and secure bike valet by Capital Bike.

Stay informed

Follow the HelloSaanich project page for updates and potential schedule changes as the work progresses. For project questions please contact our Engineering team at 250-475-5575 or engineering@saanich.ca.

For any construction issues, please contact Colecon Contracting Ltd at 778-268-0464.

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Media contact:
Saanich Communications
media@saanich.ca