By Pam Wright
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Two area construction projects causing traffic headaches for local motorists are on track to be completed by the end of this year.
According to Chatham-Kent engineering director Marissa Mascaro, the bulk of the work on Wallaceburg’s Dufferin Avenue and Chatham’s William Street North should be finished by the end of December.
However, asphalt resurfacing and boulevard work might not get done until next spring.
Mascaro said the upgrades are completed in stages.
“With large projects like this, the work is big in scope,” Mascaro explained.
The Dufferin Avenue Reconstruction project – which includes $2.5 million from the Ministry of Transportation’s Connecting Link Funding – involves the enhancement of 1.9 kilometres of the roadway from McNaughton Avenue to Walnut Drive.
The project includes reconstruction of storm sewers and watermain pipes, asphalt and the reconstruction of traffic signals and sidewalks, with final boulevard work to finish in 2024.
The ongoing construction led to the recent closure of Arnold Street and ongoing lane reductions on the main section of road.
While access to all homes and business will be maintained throughout the home stretch, drivers are advised to plan ahead and seek alternative routes, wherever possible, for the remainder of the year.
A recent news release from the municipality regarding the Dufferin Avenue project thanked the public “for their patience as important infrastructure work is completed.”
In Chatham, workers continue to plug away on the $5.85-million William Street North sewer separation project. Mascaro said additional crews have been added to ensure the deadline is met.
