Essex Streetscape Project
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The excitement is building in Essex Centre! The Town of Essex has begun improvements to downtown Essex Centre with the launch of the Essex Streetscape project. The project represents a multi-million dollar investment of infrastructure improvements and beautification.
Upgrades includes a variety of streetscape elements such as AODA-compliant sidewalks/crosswalks, curbing, bicycle racks, landscape treatments and plantings, and streetlight enhancements. In addition to the streets, urban design improvements will occur in special areas such as significant intersections, gateway entrances, and accessibility challenges.
Significant infrastructure improvements will also occur along Victoria Avenue.
Be sure to check back often and Follow the Journey!
Streetscape Style
The Town of Essex has embraced the theme “Hub of Essex County” since it’s geographically located within the heart of the County of Essex. Essex Centre is a central access point for many commercial services and retail amenities dedicated to the residents and visitors of the Town. This theme will be celebrated through various iconography throughout the project.
Project Timelines & Background
- August 2013: The Town of Essex formally adopted the Downtown Essex Centre Streetscape Plan.
- April 2021: The Town of Essex appointed Stantec Consulting Ltd. to provide engineering services to design, assist in procurement, and administer the Essex Streetscape Project.
- August 2021: The Town of Essex announced grant funding for the Essex Streetscape Project through the Canadian Community Revitalization Fund.
- February 2023: The Town issued a Request for Tender inviting companies to submit their price to complete construction of the Essex Streetscape Project.
- March 2023: Council awards the construction tender to J&J Lepera Infrastructure Inc., for 9.0 million.
- May 1, 2023: Watermain Installation requiring rolling closure on Talbot Street beginning at Arthur Ave and ending at Cameron Ave. Expected duration is 4-5 weeks, weather permitting.
- December 2023: Estimated completion for streetscape project.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section will be updated throughout the construction phase of the project. If you have a question, please email CapitalWorks@essex.ca.
| What is a streetscape? |
| Streetscape is a term is used to describe the natural and built fabric of the street, and defined as the design quality of the street and its visual effect. The concept recognizes that a street is a public place where people are able to engage in various activities. Streetscapes and their visual experience largely influences public places where people interact, and it ultimately helps define a community’s aesthetic quality, economic activity, health, and sustainability. |
| Are businesses open? |
| Yes, all businesses in the project area remain open. Vehicles and pedestrians will be permitted to enter the construction site only for the purpose of accessing businesses. Otherwise, drivers should use the marked detour routes. |
Open for Business!
All businesses within the construction zone remain open for business. Browse the many unique shops and services and grab a bite to eat at one of the incredible restaurants that Essex Centre has to offer. Let's support our local businesses and shop local.
*Please use caution when strolling the downtown area and do not enter any restricted construction zones.
Support for Businesses
For information about grant programs and resources, please contact EcDev@essex.ca or 519-776-7336 ext 1135.
Project Area
The project includes the rehabilitation and beautification of 2 project areas:
- Essex Centre Streetscape: Talbot Street from Arthur Avenue to Cameron Avenue.
- Victoria Avenue: Entirety of Victoria Avenue.
Parking
On-street parking may be limited at times due to construction. The municipal parking lots will remain available for public parking.
Streetscape Hotline & Problem Reporting
- If residents and business owners have questions or encounter a problem, they can now use the Essex Streetscape Project Hotline by calling 519-776-7336 ext 1145. Please leave a voicemail message and a member of the team will return your call.
- Submissions can also be made online through the EssexWorks Online Report a Problem System. When completing the online form, please select the category 'Essex Streetscape Project'.
Notices
- Notice: Watermain Shut Down on Monday, May 29th
May 26, 2023 - Notice 2: Construction for Essex Streetscape Improvements
April 24, 2023 - Notice 1: Construction for Essex Streetscape Improvements
March 28, 2023
Project Contacts
| Project Manager | Contractor | Town of Essex |
|---|---|---|
|
Stantec Consulting Ltd. Attn: Steven Ash or Attn: Clarence Jubenville, P.Eng. |
J&J Lepera Infrastructure Inc. Attn: Mr. Joseph Lepera, P.Eng. |
Essex Municipal Office Attn: Mr. David McBeth, C.E.T dmcbeth@essex.ca |
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