From the Beehive E129 - Looking ahead at 2026

As we kick off 2026, Mike from St. Thomas Economic Development is back with a forward-looking update on what’s ahead for St. Thomas, Yarmouth Yards, and the broader region.

After reflecting on a milestone-filled 2025, this episode looks to the momentum building this year — from major industrial construction to critical infrastructure upgrades that will support growth for decades to come. On the industrial side, construction is accelerating at Yarmouth Yards. PowerCo continues to move quickly, with extensive concrete, rebar, and upcoming steel signalling a fast-paced build. Nearby, Vianode is preparing to begin construction of its ViaTwo graphite facility, with internal servicing underway and local staffing ramping up.
Learn more about Vianode.

Major city-led infrastructure projects are also set to start in 2026. Work begins on the Dalewood Water Reclamation Facility (D-WRF), a transformative wastewater treatment project on the city’s north side designed to meet current needs and support future growth. We’ll be on site soon with Pat Anckaert to walk through what’s coming — including renderings and early construction milestones.
Learn more about Wastewater in St. Thomas and the D-WRF. 

Across Yarmouth Yards, you’ll continue to see progress at the southeast pumping station, expanded rail infrastructure (including the long-anticipated golden spike), and the development of a large, photo-worthy Yarmouth Yards sign along Highbury Avenue. Power capacity is also expanding as Hydro One advances substation work and transmission connections that will serve both the industrial park and the city. Beyond Yarmouth Yards, several projects will impact daily life in St. Thomas. Sewer and water upgrades along Talbot Street, continued work at the Woodworth Pumping Station, and coordinated servicing under Highway 3 — alongside ongoing widening by the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario — are all essential investments in long-term reliability, even as the City works to minimize traffic impacts.
Learn more about MTO's HWY 3 project.

Together, these projects represent a significant year of building — laying the groundwork for economic growth, infrastructure resilience, and improved connectivity across the region.

Thanks for watching. If you enjoy these updates, please like the video, subscribe to the channel, and stay tuned for more From the Beehive as we follow these projects throughout 2026.