Work is underway on the Wharton Street Revitalization Project in Summerland, and as a result, the street and two other sections of road in Summerland are closed to vehicle traffic.
The project is the first major initiative under the Downtown Neighbourhood Action Plan.
The work includes upgrading underground utilities, improving the roadway and pedestrian infrastructure, relocating overhead power lines, reconfiguring parking and traffic flow and more. Work is expected to continue through November.
In addition to the work being done on Wharton Street, the municipality is creating the Memorial Park Plaza, which will include an upgraded cenotaph area, seating, lighting, flag poles and electrical power. A raised crosswalk will be installed to connect this area to the Henry Avenue Plaza.
The section of Henry Avenue between Main Street and Wharton Street will be closed to vehicle traffic as a result of this project.
At present, a pedestrian walkway is in place to allow access to Memorial Park.
Kelly Avenue between Main Street and Wharton Street is also affected by the construction work.
The work is happening as organizers are preparing for the Summerland Action Festival, which is held from June 6 to 8. This festival includes activities in Memorial Park.
Pat Bell, chair of the Action Festival committee, said the downtown construction work will affect parking near Memorial Park, but the festival itself is not expected to be affected by the construction, he said.
The total cost of the Wharton Street project is estimated at $8.557 million. This includes borrowing of up to $3.365 million for this project. The borrowed money is to be repaid over a 25-year term.
