A section of 7th Avenue in front of City Hall has been reopened following completion of paving and other upgrades, the City said Tuesday.
Over the weekend, a crew repaved a section from the entrance to City Hall to the intersection with 6th Avenue and George Street, which has been closed to traffic since late last year.
During the course of the project, crews have replaced, repaired, or removed old underground utilities and other infrastructure and installed additional new features both above and below ground - including an enhanced streetscape, which the City said will improve walkability in the downtown area.
The operation is related to the construction of a new City parkade and the Park House condominium development across from City Hall. The City also used the opportunity to improve the street front along 7th Avenue in City Hall and Veterans Plaza.
"Council is very excited to see this scenic and historic downtown road re-opened, and we are pleased that the construction was used as an opportunity to upgrade and replace deteriorating infrastructure," said Mayor Lyn Hall.
"Along with the new City parkade, Park House Condominiums, and the other exciting upcoming developments on George Street such the recently announced Primex Properties condos, this new streetscape promises to increase walkability, beautify our city, and enhance this wonderful public gathering place for the increased enjoyment of residents and visitors."
Workers still have some work left to do this year involving the addition of a new planter and concrete to complete the frontage on the northwest and southwest corners of the intersection of 6th and 7th Avenue and George Street.
Later this fall, new street lights will be installed along 7th Avenue. Next spring, a section of George Street and 6th Avenue near the Keg Restaurant will be closed temporarily to allow the City's Downtown Renewable Energy System to be connected to the new parkade.
