As spring settles in, Sparwood residents will soon see progress on two significant projects set to begin in the coming weeks and months.
Beginning mid-April, Red Cedar Hill will undergo substantial work, to source and repair continual issues with erosion and settlement due to unknown ground water sources. This work will necessitate the closure of Red Cedar Hill from approximately April to September, but in turn will prevent further sloughing and road degradation. “Although this project will impact one of our highly utilized streets, it is of critical importance,” says Sparwood Mayor David Wilks. “If we don’t do anything, the hill will continue to further degrade, causing serious problems in the future.” In addition to the necessary repairs, part of the project will address road grade and walkway development with the replacement of the existing concrete curb and gutter. Pedestrians will also have a new path to travel on as the southside sidewalk will be removed and a 2.5 meter paved walkway will be completed on the North side of Red Cedar Hill in its place.
The second spring project will see the transformation of Centennial Square into a safe, accessible, and family friendly space. Over the course of the summer, residents will witness the space changing as it is torn down, brought back up to ground level, and converted into a space that combines usability with a beautification concept that focuses on elements of natural landscape. The design will incorporate trees, planters, greenspace, seating, an outdoor fire pit and string lights to create ambience and a welcoming atmosphere for all to enjoy. “Council is really excited to see this project begin. It is a combination of a couple of years of work from concept plans, to public consultation, and amending the design based on what we heard from the public. We definitely focused on the needs of the community, to provide a gathering space that can be utilized by people of all ages and abilities, as well as the wants, which includes parking and greenspaces where people can sit and relax.” Public Works will begin removing existing fixtures and furnishings from Centennial Square, with official project kickoff set to start in early May.
Both projects will result in substantial impacts to traffic and pedestrian routes. Road closures, detours and updates will be communicated through the course of both projects. “We are acutely aware of the effects these projects will have on traffic flow, as well as all of the elements related to construction work. Mayor and Council request patience and understanding from residents as we face short-term inconvenience for the long-term benefits of these important projects.”
In addition to these, several smaller projects will be happening throughout the summer. Residents will be able to find information and regular updates on the dedicated 2022 Projects webpage at https://sparwood.ca/projects-2022/.
For further information, please contact:
David Wilks
Mayor
District of Sparwood
250.425.6819
mayor@sparwood.ca
Jenna Jensen
Manager of HR & Communications
District of Sparwood
250.425.6836
jjensen@sparwood.ca
Post Date: April 4, 2022 | Category: News & Updates Send Notification