THUNDER BAY — City roads staff aim complete the resurfacing of Simpson Street this fall, but some areas, including Charry’s Corner at Rowand Street, could be delayed as officials decide on the future use of the space.
“Hopefully by the end of the whole season, everything will be completely resurfaced and it’ll look like new again,” said Brian Newman, senior project engineer.
It's been nearly a year since construction began on the south-end artery.
The section from May Street to Leith Street is now complete, Newman said.
“Base paving is done, so it’s very drivable and manageable for the residents,” Newman said.
Crews began work on Simpson from Victoria Avenue about a month ago.
“All the underground work is completed, the curb and gutters are in, and the roads have been graded. It’s just waiting on asphalt and sidewalk work,” he added.
Currently, workers are “going back into the water main work on Cummings and Dease Street”.
The remainder of the project includes areas like Charry’s Corner at Rowand Street, which was started last year and may not get started this construction season.
Newman said the city is still deciding what to do with the space, so surface work such as the finished concrete could be delayed. “We won’t know the exact plan for another month,” he added.
“There’s also another block of Leith Street that’s part of this contract, so it’s a big project,” Newman noted.
The construction initially began at May and Simpson before moving to Simpson and Victoria.
Newman said the section from Victoria to Cummings “is closed to traffic”, though side streets remain accessible to local businesses.
Residents are advised to use alternate routes when possible.
“Stay off Simpson as much as possible. Use McKenzie, use May Street, use Hardisty, if you have to. Keep your distance from Simpson if you can,” he said.
