Tecumseh councillors are going with the most expensive option in revitalizing the old core of the town on Tecumseh Rd. near Lesperance Rd.
Council unanimously approved a nearly $19-million design that will guide planners in mapping out the project. The main difference in the design compared to the $14-million baseline option is the removal of hydro poles and burying that wiring in the ground to open up more usable space.
Mayor Gary McNamara feels it's crucial to see those hydro poles removed in order to meet the vision of the main street corridor.
"It gives us far more flexibility in developing something really special," says McNamara.
However, the move to bury the wires isn't purely aesthetic.
"It improves the reliability of the systems as well," says McNamara. "They're not subject to lightning, vehicle accidents and so forth, so reliability actually improves."
In approving the option council hasn't committed any dollars to the project — which is expected to be complete over the next four to five years.
Ward 1 Councillor Andrew Dowie recognizes it's a big ticket project, but feels it's money well spent.
"If we're going to get it done, we need to get it done right. This is going to be a hallmark feature for our a town. A place that our residents can be proud of," says Dowie.
A pop-up event is being held in Tecumseh today at Frank Brewing Co. between 12pm and 7pm to give residents a chance to learn more about the streetscaping project.