A major Toronto intersection shut down to motorists and cyclists on Monday morning, and will remain closed for an entire week to accommodate a significant reconstruction project.

From August 19 until August 26, the intersection of Bloor Street and St. George Street will remain fully closed off to traffic.

The closure marks the final phase in the City of Toronto's reconstruction of a stretch of Bloor Street West spanning from Avenue Road to Spadina Avenue. The project has been ongoing since July 2023, as part of the City's efforts to implement what it describes as "a number of improvements to enhance accessibility and safety for all road users."

Among the changes road users can expect once the project wraps next week, the project will include a total reconstruction of the road base and replacement of the asphalt surface, rebuilt sidewalks with improved accessibility, and new permanent raised bike lanes.

Plans also include upgrades to tree pits at the intersection, as well as other green infrastructure features.

Pedestrian access to the intersection, including access to local businesses, will be maintained throughout the closure, while a bike detour is currently in place.

Reconstruction of this stretch of Bloor Street West follows an earlier project to replace a watermain.

Construction-weary residents and businesses in the area can breathe a sigh of relief, as the City states that the current closure represents "the final phase of work planned along this segment of Bloor Street West following the completion of the watermain replacement in August 2021."