Work will begin in September on pedestrian improvements along 27th Street, including new sidewalks, bike lanes and street lighting that will enhance pedestrian safety and access to businesses in the 27th Street Business District. These improvements represent the next phase of the 27th Street Improvement Plan that was begun several years ago.
Members of the City’s Engineering staff will hold a pre-construction meeting with the project’s contractor and utility providers in August to ensure access to businesses in the area is maintained during the construction period.
“We want the contractors to understand the importance of keeping all business driveways open,” says Nuri Avcular, deputy director of Engineering & Capital Projects for the City. “At the same time, however, we hope everyone will understand that there may be some traffic delays as a result of the construction and that there may be a need to create temporary access to some areas during the process.”
The City is also going to organize a meeting with business owners in the area to answer any questions they may have about the street enhancements as well as to explain additional measures the City is taking to minimize business impacts. Details about the meeting date and time will be sent to district business owners.
“We are acutely aware that street construction can be disruptive, but we believe that when the work is concluded, businesses along 27th Street will appreciate the improvements that will add a level of walkability to their district,” says Mariza Craig, the City’s director of Economic Development. “As the demand for walkable communities grows among consumers, this can only benefit our local businesses.”