By 1812Blockhouse
The large-scale streetscape, sidewalk, and infrastructure installation project in downtown Shelby is maintaining its pace for a hopeful fall or early winter opening.
Initial work on the project, which is taking place on highways SR 39, SR96, and SR61 began in April. Stage One was completed in early April, and then work moved eastward in early June with new streets and intersections impacted.
Late last week, the Ohio Department of Transportation shared bullet-point details of where the entire project stands as of this weekend.:
NEW IMPACTS
- SR 39/96 (Main Street), at the SR 39 (Mansfield Avenue/Broadway Street) intersection, is now open to traffic.
- SR 61 (Gamble Street) at the SR 39/96 intersection is open to traffic.
- Stage 3, Phase 1: Construction on the north side of SR 39/96 (Main Street) has commenced. Crews will be installing sidewalks and crosswalks, completing streetscape items and drainage system improvements. Estimated completion of Phase 1 work: Wednesday, August 31, 2022.
- Traffic will be maintained by flaggers on the north side of SR 39/96 during Stage 3, Phase 1 construction. Side road and alley closures will be needed to complete this work.
- Stage 3, Phase 2: Construction on the south side of SR 39/96 (Main Street) will begin approximately on September 1; however, all work is weather dependent and subject to change. Crews will be installing sidewalks and crosswalks, completing streetscape items and drainage system improvements. Estimated completion of Phase 2 work: Friday, September 30.
- Traffic will be maintained by flaggers during the Stage 3, Phase 2 construction. Side roads and alley closures will also be needed to complete this work.
When completed, the Main Street streetscape will feature pedestrian improvements, an arch, enhancements on the Black Fork bridge, and the installation of trees and other decorative elements. The goal is to entice people locally and those passing through with obvious signs of vitality, thereby encouraging them to stop and patronize businesses.
It will be joined by two additional components of Shelby’s downtown project. Bike trail and stream restoration work will take place in 2023, and will include restoring the banks of the Black Ford to their natural, vegetated state. Then, the Black Ford Commons Plaza will include a fountain/splash feature for kids, a plaza, and a pergola/outdoor fireplace. For up-to-date information on the downtown project, including closing and detour information, visit the City’s downtown construction web page.
