Development projects will speed up Pettit Road reconstruction timeline
September 11, 2025 at 3:52 AM
Thanks to some major developments taking place in the area, including one that received draft plan of subdivision approval on Monday night, upgrades to Pettit Road may come sooner than originally thought.
Responding to a question from Mayor Wayne Redekop, the town’s Acting Director of Infrastructure Jordan Frost said the project’s timeline will likely be sped up.
“Come 2026 capital budget we are able to bring this forward to move it ahead of schedule, if so directed,” he said.
Originally staff pegged a 2030 timeline for the work, which will rely on development charges. But projects like Spears Garden, a 211-unit development that fronts onto Pettit between Garrison Road and Bertie Street, should allow that time frame to be pushed up.
Redekop said he was concerned about what will happen when people start moving into the development, pointing specifically to kids who will be walking to school. He referenced a request from the District School Board of Niagara to ensure sidewalks on all internal roads of the development.
“The problem is, when they get to Pettit, there are no sidewalks,” he said.
The Spears Garden subdivision is set to include 127 lots for single detached houses, as well as 14 blocks of townhouses, totaling 84 units.
Developers Yiliming International Real Estate had already received the necessary zoning bylaw and official plan amendments. Monday’s report simply dealt with the draft plan of subdivision.
However, councillors still had some concerns about the project.
Councillor Ann-Marie Noyes questioned staff about the infrastructure capacity.
“Are we confident the stormwater management and infrastructure can handle this development?” she asked staff.
Frost responded by saying the development will pose no additional risk, and that the town and region performed flow monitoring in the sewers.
Councillor Nick Dubanow said the number of townhouse units in the project were pushing his personal limits and worried the developers could come back in a later phase looking to push that number even higher.
However, Director of Planning and Development Services Anamika Dilwaria told Dubanow such changes would require additional applications.
“They would have to come back to council and council can deny or approve what they feel is the decision at that point in time,” she said.
Redekop additionally asked staff to keep in mind the area’s history as they work with the developers to develop street names. He was also worried about the potential look of the subdivision and suggested the town should push for more information when they’re at the zoning stage.
Due to provincial changes, Supervisor of Development Approvals Devon Morton said the town will have limited say on things like building materials.
“I really cringe at the prospect of another development where all the units look the same,” he said.
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About The Author
Luke Edwards
Luke Edwards is a longtime Niagara community journalist who has covered a variety of beats, including business, agriculture, the wine industry and politics. When not writing, there's a good chance he can be found at a baseball diamond or curling rink.
Limit town homes to the very minimum. Enough of these eyesores, and density increases.
Build smaller homes instead.