UNITY — Unity residents have been chatting amongst themselves about the current construction project on First Avenue offering their empathy for businesses navigating the construction chaos as well as wondering what the work stoppage was in relation to.
We asked Mayor, Sharon Del Frari, to give the Unity-Wilkie Press-Herald and SASKTODAY.ca an update on the project.
The First Avenue construction project has created some significant challenges for businesses in that area, she says.
“Creativity and patience will allow our businesses to continue to serve their customers throughout the construction phase.”
The mayor said there are currently 12 employees on site representing engineers and contractors for the project. These numbers will increase once curbs, paving and sidewalks commence.
Public Works Director, Jake Senger, is the point man for those involved in the construction project. Residents are directed to the town office or any member of council regarding questions or concerns.
The construction has resulted in the re-routing of the annual Unity Western Days parade. Parade Master, Michael Soloski and his volunteers are planning to go up Main Street then west on Second Avenue to the post office corner before turning north again. “
The Town of Unity and Federated Co-op were both aware of contamination at the Main Street corner from the former co-op gas station located there. This clean-up is the only questionable delay. Once they determine the amount of contaminated soil to remove, construction should move smoothly, adds Del Frari.
The mayor says they will have a firmer picture of the timeline as the project moves forward. The plan is to finish construction this fall, with a final lift of pavement next spring.
