By Don Urquhart, Times Chronicle
The Town of Oliver’s Co-op Avenue Reconstruction Project which began on April 30 is now in full swing with the road closed 24 hours a day, seven days a week for the next six weeks.
The road had been open on and off since the project began but now will be fully closed until late May due to “dewatering”. The town explained that this involves temporarily lowering the groundwater levels in this area to allow for excavation to occur in dry conditions, below the natural groundwater level.
This closure will include all segments of Co-op Avenue east of Main Street, with the exception of access on Co-op Avenue to the No Frills parking lot and the Chevron Station.
Map of construction area on Co-op Avenue.
Construction activities will take place between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, with Saturday work from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. as needed. Local business traffic will continue to have intermittent access, however, “alternate arrangements should be made whenever possible,” the town said.
It added that the project will bring a number of benefits to Oliver including 230 metres of sidewalk, and increased parking availability. A new three-way traffic stop at Co-op Avenue and Station Street will “further bolster traffic management, reduce congestion and potential accidents.”
The town added that additional updates will be communicated as they are available. The construction will be completed by September 30 the town said.
In addition to the road and sidewalk enhancements, the project encompasses crucial underground infrastructure improvements to our sanitary sewer, storm sewer, reclaimed water, and potable water systems. These upgrades will enhance the reliability and efficiency of Oliver’s utilities and ensure more efficient transportation, the town said.
