Work has begun on a multi-million-dollar streetscape project in Essex.
With Essex Town Council awarding a $4.6-million contract to J.C.S. Construction Inc. earlier this year, crews have started the transformation of an area of Harrow's urban core.
The streetscape project encompasses Queen, King, and McAffee Streets, and will include landscape treatments, plantings, new street lighting, bicycle racks, new curbs, and Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) compliant sidewalks and crosswalks. Improvements will also be made to certain intersections, gateway entrances, push-button controlled pedestrian crossings, and accessibility challenges.
"Council and I are thrilled to see shovels in the ground and the official start of this project," said Essex Mayor Larry Snively in a media release. "This is truly an investment in the future of Harrow and the rest of the town of Essex community. From the beginning, Harrow residents and small business owners have been at the heart of the project. They offered their feedback on the design of the streetscape, and we are excited to see the concept become a reality."
Storm sewer and water main improvements are also a key part of this project.
"The project also includes significant renewal of storm sewer and water main infrastructure in the core of Harrow," said Essex's Director of Infrastructure Services Kevin Girard. "By including stormwater and water main improvements along with the streetscaping, we are able to save money and ensure the long-term sustainability of this area’s infrastructure."
A $250,000 contribution from the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs’ Rural Economic Development grant program is also included.
The work is expected to be completed this fall.