Navigating Montpelier During Construction
State Street Reconstruction – What Visitors Need to Know
Montpelier is getting some much-needed upgrades! Beginning March 18, 2025, construction on State Street will update underground infrastructure. While this work is essential, we know it can make getting around a little tricky.
We appreciate your patience and support for our local businesses during this time. Thank you for visiting Montpelier!
Getting Here & Parking
Downtown is Open! Shops, restaurants, and attractions are ready to welcome you.
Parking Updates: Some parking may be affected, but alternatives are being explored. Check out the parking map for more info on open lots.
Driving Detours: Expect some lane shifts and changes. Check out the detour map to plan your route and navigate downtown with ease!
Walking & Exploring Downtown
Sidewalks Remain Open: Pedestrian access to businesses will be maintained throughout construction.
Wayfinding Signs: Look for signs guiding you to your favorite downtown spots, parking lots, and detours.
Events & Attractions: Construction won’t stop the fun! Check out our calendar for things to do.
Stay Updated
Communicate: Scroll to the bottom or click this link to access our City communications hub.
Check back: We update this page regularly with new information so be sure to check back to stay informed.
Follow: Montpelier Alive on Facebook & Instagram.
VT-Alert: Sign up for VT-Alert to receive personalized alerts about emergencies.
More Details About the Project:
The current construction on State Street near the Rialto Bridge is the first of a two-part project to upgrade stormwater infrastructure throughout the heart of Montpelier’s Downtown. This project will remove stormwater pipes that are currently tied into the wastewater system, preventing sewage from overflowing into the Winooski River. The finished infrastructure will also treat stormwater runoff before entering the river reducing the pollutants in our local waterways.
Most of the work on State Street in the first phase will be completed by June 30 as required by the contract. Additional work on Main Street and East State Street will be completed in 2026.
Current Work - May 9th Update
Join us for a Cash Mob on May 17th and May 31st to support the State Street businesses hit hard by construction! More info HERE.
What’s Next: Plan for week of 5/12: The contractor will be saw-cutting pavement on the East side of the pit in front of Capital Kitchen, Enna, and Botanica Florals. This work is to facilitate the excavation and removal of the wooded debris that's blocking the pipe ramming process. The pipe ramming subcontractor, Bore Tech, will be mobilizing and setting up on site. Once the steel sleeve is delivered to the site, pipe ramming will begin. This process will be very loud, so hearing protection will be offered in the red buckets on the sidewalk at either end of the construction site.
Work Completed: Week of 5/5: The contractor has completed this stage of pit excavation and reached a depth of 18 feet. Clean stone has been placed at the bottom to allow for drainage, dewatering, and a good working surface. On Thursday, the contractor poured a concrete pad that is 48 feet long by 8 feet wide that the pipe ramming equipment will be fastened to.
Traffic Alert: New All-Way Stop at State & Elm Streets
Due to ongoing construction in the downtown area, State Street and Elm Street is now operating as an ALL-WAY STOP until further notice. This temporary traffic pattern is a public safety and traffic calming measure designed to improve flow and enhance safety for everyone navigating this busy intersection, especially with increased construction-related activity in the area.
Communicate with the City of Montpelier
Community Engagement Portal (Zencity)
Sign up for alerts from the City
Social Media
YouTube: @cityofmontpelierVT802
Facebook: @City of Montpelier, VT - City Government
Instagram: @cityofmontpelier
Linked In: @City of Montpelier, Vermont
Construction
Community Project Portal for construction specific info.
