Construction on Atwater Avenue aimed at upgrading the city's water‑conservation infrastructure is taking longer than originally scheduled, city officials said on Saturday. The delay has prompted the municipal government to repeat its request that Montreal households continue to limit their water use until the work is completed.

The Atwater Avenue improvements form part of a broader program to increase water efficiency across Montreal. By modernising pipes and installing advanced control systems, the project seeks to reduce overall consumption and help the city meet its long‑term water‑conservation targets. While the exact timeline for finishing the upgrades has not been released, the extension means the benefits of the work will be realized later than expected.

City leaders have emphasized that the success of the initiative depends not only on the physical upgrades but also on the continued cooperation of residents. Campaigns encouraging shorter showers, fixing leaks promptly and using appliances wisely remain in force, with public messages reminding citizens that every litre saved contributes to the collective goal. The municipal water department has reiterated that the current demand management measures are essential while the Atwater Avenue system is under construction.

Montreal has been promoting water‑saving practices citywide for several years, and the Atwater Avenue project reflects that ongoing commitment. Officials hope that the extended construction period will not diminish public willingness to conserve water, and they will monitor usage patterns closely as the upgrades near completion. The city urges all residents to keep their water‑saving habits in place until the new infrastructure is fully operational.