Expect to see work on Chatham-Kent’s new Community Hub starting if you visit downtown Chatham.
According to a municipal media release, Fortis Construction Group Inc. staff are expected to be on site this week to kick off the project.
Initial activities include setting up perimeter fencing in preparation for demolition work on the structure’s exterior and for the expansion of the former Sears building to the north and to the south.
Some temporary closures are necessary to ensure safety and separate work areas and activities from the public, the release said. This includes closing the sidewalk and parking spaces on the south side of King Street West and the east side of Fifth Street for the duration of the project’s construction.
In addition, the northbound Route 5 transit stop on Fifth Street at King Street West will be out of service during the build.
Traffic control measure will be installed at the site beginning Dec. 2, and 3, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Traffic/access will be maintained through these areas during the installations. Police will be present to direct traffic during this time, but motorists should expect temporary delays along Fifth Street from Wellington Street West to King Street West and King Street West from Fifth Street to Sixth Street during this work.
On-street parking areas on the north side of King Street West and adjacent areas in the downtown will remain open, along with all downtown parking lots.
The pedestrian crossing at King Street West and Sixth Street will also stay open for access to the mall. Signage will be posted for all sidewalk closures.
The Chatham-Kent Community Hub, located at 130 King St. West in Chatham, will unite key civic and cultural services under one roof to include a new library, museum and civic centre.
