With warmer weather finally here, construction season has officially returned to the Forest City. The City of London has released details of its 2026 Renew London Program, outlining one of the largest infrastructure investments the city has seen in years.
While these projects are designed to improve road safety and traffic flow long term, active construction zones can significantly increase the risk of motor vehicle collisions, pedestrian accidents, cyclist injuries, and work zone incidents. For London residents, understanding what is coming and how to protect yourself matters.
A $385 Million Investment in London’s Infrastructure
According to the City, the 2026 Renew London Program includes approximately $285 million in new construction projects, along with $100 million in ongoing work carried over from last year.
City officials say this level of investment is necessary to support London’s rapid population growth and ensure roads, bridges, and transit systems can safely handle increased demand.
Projects will take place across:
- Major roads and intersections
- Bridges and overpasses
- Sidewalks and bike lanes
- Transit corridors and underground infrastructure
While construction is carefully coordinated to reduce disruption, drivers and pedestrians should expect delays, detours, and changing traffic patterns throughout the year.
Why Construction Zones Increase Injury Risk
Construction areas are among the most dangerous places on the road. Reduced lanes, uneven pavement, temporary signage, and distracted drivers all contribute to higher collision risks.
From a personal injury perspective, we often see injuries related to:
- Collisions between motor vehicles;
- Pedestrians struck in poorly marked detours;
- Cyclists injured due to narrowed lanes or missing bike infrastructure;
- Slip and fall injuries near sidewalks under repair; and
- Accidents involving heavy construction vehicles.
Even when cities take precautions, negligence, unclear signage, or unsafe conditions can still lead to serious injuries.
Major 2026 Construction Projects to Watch
The City reports that 2026 construction will cover more than 100 kilometers of road, upgrade 20 intersections, and replace or install over 30 kilometers of underground infrastructure.
Some of the most impactful projects include:
- Highbury Avenue South Road Rehabilitation
- Improving travel between London and Highway 401, an area already known for high traffic volumes.
- Phillip Aziz Avenue and Western Road Improvements
- Enhancing safety near Western University, where pedestrian and cyclist traffic is especially high.
- Queen’s Bridge Rehabilitation
- Rebuilding the bridge deck, improving pedestrian crossings, and adding a multi-use path for cyclists and walkers.
- Sunningdale Road West Improvements
- Road widening and safety upgrades to support future development.
- East London Link and Rapid Transit Corridors
- Multiple phases of work that will change traffic flow on Highbury Avenue, Oxford Street East, and Dundas Street.
Mayor Josh Morgan noted that this scale of investment is essential to keep London moving safely as the city continues to grow.
How to Stay Safe Around Construction Zones
Whether you are driving, walking, or cycling, extra caution is essential during construction season.
Some practical safety tips include:
- Slow down and follow posted construction speed limits.
- Expect sudden lane changes or stops.
- Watch carefully for workers, cyclists, and pedestrians.
- Avoid distractions and leave extra following distance.
- Obey temporary signage, even if it feels inconvenient.
Injured in a Construction Zone Accident?
While infrastructure improvements aim to make our city safer, accidents can still happen, especially when construction zones are not properly maintained or marked.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, pedestrian collision, cycling incident, or slip and fall related to road construction, a personal injury lawyer can help determine whether negligence played a role and what compensation may be available.
Construction season is here, and while progress is important, your safety should always come first.
