The Exeter Main Street reconstruction project, which kicked off in mid-April, is steadily progressing – and continuing to cause some frustration for commuters – with a portion of Highway 4 currently an active construction zone, from Walper Street to the Ausable River Bridge.
The initial phase, scheduled for completion by August, focuses on the reconstruction of the east side of Main Street North, encompassing sanitary and storm sewer replacement, sidewalk installation, and base asphalt work – but Shane Timmermans – Manager of Transportation Services for the Municipality of South Huron says that this is just the beginning.
Large machinery is scattered throughout the zone | Photo by B. Shakyaver
Following the completion of both sides of the street, there will be a period of settling in the middle, before the road is resurfaced next year.
Throughout the project, efforts are being made to minimize disruption to local businesses. Clear communication and collaboration with business owners ensure continued accessibility despite construction challenges.
Recognizing the significance of maintaining traffic flow through an area with an average daily volume exceeding 15,000 vehicles – municipal officials are working to minimize disruptions, despite a lack of ability to redirect traffic around the zone, due to the bridge being the only crossing point.
That being said, with much of the infrastructure in the municipality reaching the end of it’s life cycle, this won’t be the last time a street in Exeter gets a major facelift.
Written by: B. Shakyaver