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Cranbrook, BC (May 5, 2020) – One of the largest projects in the City’s 2020 capital works program started early last week, officially kicking off the road construction season.

8^th Avenue South between 3^rd Street South and 4^th Street South will be undergoing a full reconstruction including water main and storm sewer upgrades, with full road construction and repaving to follow. Mackay Contracting is conducting the project with a completion date expected in early August. Total cost of this project is nearly $630 thousand dollars.

The second major project will be 8^th Street South from 3^rd Avenue South to 5^th Avenue South, with Tybo Contracting undertaking the project. Replacement of waters services, along with new sidewalks and pavement, are all part of this project, at a cost of $670 thousand dollars.

“The dedicated road tax we collect is earmarked to fix our failing infrastructure,” says Mayor Lee Pratt. “This year with the devastating effects of COVID-19, it is more important than ever that we continue with these projects. The dollars spent will create employment and support our local economy.”

“We are excited to get these projects underway that should really improve services to the local residents,” says Mike Matejka, Manager of Infrastructure Planning & Delivery. “We know that disruptions may be felt more with so many people staying home, so the City and its contractors will be making extra efforts to minimize impacts and keep lines of communication open.”

Letters have been delivered on behalf of the City to those residents directly impacted by the construction informing them of the scheduled work and any potential service and property access disruptions.

It is also important for all residents to be aware that all City capital works contractors are required to provide a safety plan that includes best practices to address COVID-19 in construction workplaces and project sites.

The City’s overall 2020 repaving program is expected to go to tender this week. Repaving is anticipated to start toward the end of May with an early September wrap. Streets on tap for repaving this year include Birch Drive, and 3^rd Street South from 27^th to 31^st Avenue.

The City and its contractors would like to thank all affected residents and property owners for their understanding and cooperation as these major infrastructure investment projects continue in the City.

Image: Crews with Mackay Contracting working on the 8th Avenue South reconstruction project. Photo: City of Cranbrook.