While much of the heavy construction along Lakeshore Drive is now behind it, Cold Lake residents can expect additional work and refinements in 2026 as the City continues to finalize one of its largest infrastructure projects.

Mayor Bob Mattice says the Lakeshore Drive upgrades were always planned as a multi-year effort, with underground work taking priority.

“It’s not just about making it look nice. A lot of the underground infrastructure is aging and needs to be replaced.”

What’s Been Completed So Far

Over the past several years, the City has focused on replacing end-of-life underground utilities, including water, sewer, and storm systems, before rebuilding the surface corridor.

Completed work includes:

• Replacement of aging underground utilities

• Road reconstruction

• Slope stabilization, including a sheet pile seawall

• Improved drainage and traffic flow

• New pathways and enhanced access between Kinosoo Beach and the Cold Lake Marina

The corridor was soft launched in late 2025, allowing public access while acknowledging that final adjustments and refinements remain.

What Residents Can Expect in 2026

In 2026, the City expects to focus on:

• Final site refinements and adjustments

• Landscaping maturity and finishing touches

• Monitoring of infrastructure performance following full seasonal use

• Minor corrective work as part of post-construction review periods

Mattice says this approach helps ensure the project performs as intended long term.

“If you don’t fix infrastructure now, it just costs more later.”

A Long-Term Waterfront Investment

Rather than rushing to declare the project finished, Mattice says the City is taking a measured approach.

“Infrastructure isn’t glamorous, but it’s critical.”

The Lakeshore Drive upgrades are intended to protect key utilities while creating a safer, more accessible waterfront space that will serve residents and visitors for decades.

“Lake Shore Drive is a huge part of Cold Lake. We want it to be something people are proud of.”

Learn More

To learn more about the plans for Lakeshore Drive, you can visit: https://www.coldlake.com/city-hall/capital-projects/lakeshore-drive-infrastructure-improvements/

Cold Lake Takes Long-Term Approach to Infrastructure Spending

Rather than delaying major repairs or shocking taxpayers with sudden increases, Cold Lake is focusing on steady, long-term infrastructure planning.

Mayor Bob Mattice said this approach helps manage costs and expectations.

“We try not to hit taxpayers all at once.”

Instead, council looks ahead and spreads investment over time.

“It’s about planning ahead so you’re not reacting when something fails.”

Mattice said this philosophy applies to roads, utilities, and facilities.

“Infrastructure isn’t glamorous, but it’s critical.”

By addressing issues early, the city avoids emergency repairs.

“If you wait too long, it costs more. That’s just reality.”

The Morning After with Mayor Bob Mattice on Lakeland Connect