Township council has approved an extension of the lighting portion of the streetscape design for the McGivern Street reconstruction project slated for the village this summer, at an estimated additional cost of $235,475.
However, approval for the extension was made subject to input from a public meeting set for April 19.
Wellington County is preparing to reconstruct the downtown portion of McGivern Street (Wellington Road 10) in the village of Moorefield. The reconstruction is being planned between Hilwood Drive and Booth Street. The work will consist of road and storm sewer reconstruction as well as revitalization of the streetscape between Moore Street and Parkview Drive.
The engineer’s estimate for the entire project is $3.3 million.
The streetscape work, funded by the township, consists of various sidewalk repairs, impressed coloured concrete boulevards and retaining wall, street trees, decorative poles and pedestrian light fixtures, to be constructed between the limits of Moore Street and Parkview Drive, is currently estimated at $230,000.
A staff report presented to Mapleton council on March 11 states, “This reconstruction project presents an opportunity to extend the proposed streetscape improvements to the area bound by Booth Street and Ball Street,” in accordance with goals outlined in the municipality’s 2013 strategic plan.
The original plan calls for 16 decorative pedestrian light poles and fixtures at $88,000, plus associated trenching, ducts, wires and power supply for $54,475.
The proposed extension would see an additional 19 decorative poles added for $104,500 and additional trenching, ducts, wires and power supply costing $130,975.
The staff report, prepared by manager of assets and infrastructure Paul Hinsperger and public works director Sam Mattina, states the lighting extension would:
– enhance the streetscape appeal;
– provide greater visual impact and awareness of the presence of the community;
– provide greater opportunity for outdoor presence and activity by the community; and
– provide opportunity for future development and investment.
Councillor Lori Woodham asked if the project would include the boulevard between the sidewalk and the roadway in the area of Maryborough Public School.
CAO Brad McRoberts said the drawings indicated a boulevard area.
“I believe there will be sidewalk along the majority of the project when all is said and done,” added Mattina.
Mayor Neil Driscoll said he struggles with “spending more dollars” on the lighting extension given the results of a similar recent project in downtown Drayton.
“Honestly, when Drayton was done I don’t think fifty per cent of people were happy with what was done there,” he stated.
Woodham said she would be willing to support a resolution to approve the extension plan, subject to public comments and input on the design at the April 19 public meeting, “provided it’s presented as an option.
“I personally don’t feel comfortable saying ‘this is what I want,’” she added.
Council accepted the plan, including the extension, subject to input from the public meeting.
