Work on two projects to enhance Elora’s downtown core is expected to begin this August.
The Colborne Street reconstruction from Geddes Street to North Queen Street and the Metcalfe Street parking lot will bring significant improvements to historic downtown Elora for many years to come.
Metcalfe Street Parking Lot
The township will be constructing a new municipal parking lot near the corner of Metcalfe Street and Water Street beside the LCBO.
The new municipal parking lot will create 32 additional parking spaces, 66 in total including four accessible spots to serve downtown Elora.
The preferred concept for the design was developed as part of the public consultation process with community stakeholders, the Elora BIA and the public in 2016. Construction will begin in August and be completed in fall of 2017.
Key features of this project include:
– 32 new parking spaces including four accessible spots;
– landscaping, which will include replacing 10 existing trees, most of which are currently in poor condition or are an invasive tree species. Ten new trees will be planted on site and 10 additional trees within one block of the project;
– storm water drainage, concrete curbing and asphalt paving;
– future electric vehicle charging stations and bike racks in O’Brien Park; and
– decorative heritage style lighting.
Pearle Hospitality had owned the parcel of land adjacent to the LCBO on Metcalfe Street which is now owned by the township.
This allows the redevelopment of this new land parcel and other adjacent lands owned by the township to replace and expand public parking in the downtown.
Colborne Street Reconstruction (Geddes to North Queen)
Reconstruction of Colbore Street will begin in August.
Work includes replacement of the watermain, sanitary sewers and storm sewers, new concrete curbs and gutters as well as asphalt paving of the street.
Above ground lines for hydro and the various utilities will be buried underground to create an open street view.
On street parking, traffic calming measures, new concrete sidewalks and decorative heritage style street lighting improvements will be made.
The parking and sidewalk layout will be arranged to accommodate a large existing ash tree which is undergoing treatment for the emerald ash borer.
Landscaping and additional tree plantings will be included.
Construction is set to begin in August and be completed this year.
Surface finishing asphalt will be completed in 2018.
