ESTEVAN - There is a little bit of work that can be completed during the winter months in the 1100 and 1200 blocks of Fourth Street as part of the downtown revitalization project, but most of the remaining tasks will have to wait for next year.
The 1100 and 1200 blocks of Fourth Street opened again to traffic in November after each was shut down for months.
"This is a significant milestone in the project, and we would like to thank residents, business owners and visitors for their patience as work continues to transform the downtown core," the city said in an email to the Mercury and SaskToday. "Crews have completed the majority of sidewalk work in the 1100 block, and both blocks are now accessible to traffic."
Street lighting installation is set to begin in the coming weeks and will continue through December and January. The city says this new lighting will enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of the downtown area, contributing to a safer and more welcoming environment.
City manager Jeff Ward said the street lighting for the 1100-block will be finished as supplies arrive through the winter. Traffic lights at 13th Avenue and Fourth Street will not be completed until later next year.
"There are currently temporary flood lights installed to ensure the area is illuminated at night," said Ward.
Earlier this year, the previous Estevan city council approved a four-way stop for the intersection of Fourth Street and 12th Avenue instead of traffic lights, and traffic flows in the area will be monitored to see if traffic lights are warranted in the future.
Paving stones are almost finished in the 1100 block. The 1200 block will still see the installation of tree cells, electrical work, and paving stones, along with a third lift of asphalt for both blocks.
"We’re focused on completing the project efficiently while minimizing disruptions for businesses and residents," said Jesse Gerhardt with ASL Paving Ltd., the project's contractor. "The upcoming phases, including tree installation and finishing work in 2025, will further elevate the streetscape and improve the pedestrian experience."
If scopes remain the same, Ward said the project will be complete in 2025.
"The City of Estevan remains dedicated to ensuring that the revitalization project creates lasting benefits for the community and we appreciate the continued support and understanding from everyone impacted by the construction."
The City of Estevan announced early in the year it had received $7.75 through the Canada Coal Transition Initiative for the downtown revitalization project, nearly two years after the designs were initially released at a public meeting. The city has until March 31, 2025, to spend the federal money.
As part of the federal commitment, the city agreed to replace the underground infrastructure for those two blocks of Fourth Street.
