Essex Centre Streetscape Construction Begins

Construction on the Essex Centre Streetscape and Victoria Ave Project is set to begin on May 1, 2023. The project represents a multi-million dollar investment of infrastructure improvements and beautification in the urban core of Essex Centre.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the official start of this significant project.” said Sherry Bondy, Mayor. “This project represents a substantial investment in our community. From the onset, Essex residents and small business owners have been at the heart of the project. We appreciate their feedback, and we are excited to see the concept become a reality.”

The Town of Essex formally adopted the Downtown Essex Centre Streetscape Plan in August 2013. Stantec Consulting Ltd. was appointed in April 2021 to provide engineering services to design, assist in procurement, and administer the Essex Streetscape Project. At the Regular Council Meeting held on March 20, 2023, Council agreed to invest over $9 million to move the two projects forward.

The streetscape project, which will take place on Talbot Street from Arthur Avenue to Cameron Avenue, 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 the entirety of Victoria Avenue.

“In addition to the streetscape redesign, the project also includes significant renewal of storm sewer and watermain infrastructure in the core of Essex,” said Kevin Girard, Director, Infrastructure Services. “By completing the watermain improvements alongside the streetscaping, we are able to save money and ensure the long-term sustainability of this area’s infrastructure.”

In March 2023, Council awarded the construction tender to J&J Lepera Infrastructure Inc., for $9.0 million.

The project is also made possible with a nearly $250,000 contribution from the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs’ Rural Economic Development (RED) grant program. Funds from the grant support the cost of landscaping and street furniture such as benches, bike racks, and planters in both the Harrow and Essex Streetscape project. In addition, $750,000 in federal funding was received by the Canada Community Revitalization Fund.

For questions on the project, residents and business owners are asked to contact the Essex Streetscape Project Hotline by calling 519-776-7336 ext 1145. The hotline will be staffed during regular business hours (8:30am to 4:30pm). Callers will also have the option to leave a voicemail message outside of business hours. Submissions can also be made online through the Report a Problem System by visiting www.essex.ca. Residents with concerns or questions regarding the construction are asked to NOT approach on-site Town of Essex staff or construction workers.

Project updates, timelines, frequently asked questions, and project contacts can be found online at www.essex.ca/streetscape

The construction on the project is estimated to be completed December 2023.

From left to right: Gregg Laframboise, Kim Dennison, Brad Allard, Rodney Hammond, Sherry Bondy, Joe Garon, Jelena Adzic, Stephanie Wingler, Steven Hanratty.