Construction season is set to begin in Calgary, but one problematic project will see some major changes in 2018.
The city has unveiled its new schedule for construction along 17 Avenue S.W., which will see work stopped along the busy roadway from Stampede until the end of the September long weekend.
“We’re limiting the construction, removing fencing and paving over the work that’s currently underway,” City of Calgary spokesperson Ryan Murray said. “We’ll also put back on-street parking during those months.”
Last year, a number of businesses came forward with complaints after the construction and delays led to several blocks being shutdown, hitting businesses hard.
“I think the city really learned from the experiences last year,” Trolley 5 owner Ernie Tsu said. “There’s a new team that’s handling the upcoming project and we’re confident with the new team so far.”
Senior transportation engineer Peter Rudolf is now in charge of the $44-million project, taking over for Logan Tolsma.
The project includes upgrading utilities, rebuilding the road and improving the area for pedestrians.
Construction is expected to begin next week between 2 Street S.W. and College Lane S.W. near Western Canada High School.
“We’ll be tightening up the construction zone to three blocks,” Murray said. “Anytime we can limit construction in front of a business, it’s a good thing.”
Business owners hope the city will hold true to its word.
“We just want it done quickly and also well, so they don’t have to come back to fix it,” Steeling Home owner Jennifer LeBlond said.
“We want to get the message out that all the businesses along 17 Avenue will be open.”
Full details on the construction website can be found on the city’s website.