August 14, 2020

As we enter the final month of construction, crews are making significant, visual progress. This week, crews started conducting extra street sweeping to manage the dust associated with the project. Below are some updates on the major construction elements that will be completed over the next few weeks as crews begin to put Lake Street back together.

Lake Street is expected to fully open on September 18. At that point the project will be substantially complete; however, there will be some minor construction activity in the area through the month as crews wrap up smaller parts of the project.

Landscaping 

Trees, grass and plants are gradually being planted along Lake Street, which will help turn this construction site into a vibrant main street.

The landscape and design features will beautify and support the ecosystem of the lakefront. Strategically planted gardens will help capture and purify rainwater before it returns to the lake. Oak and maple trees along the street and intersections will bring welcomed shade in the summer and bright, beautiful colors in the fall. And perennial and annual plantings will add some greenery and flowers to the sidewalks.

Public restroom 

Crews have been constructing the public restroom for several weeks, starting with the exterior building structure and plumbing and recently moving to interior of the restroom. Crews still need to finalize the exterior finishes of the building, which are semi-reflective to help the building blend in more to the surroundings. When it's complete, this two-stall public restroom will be a beautiful (and much needed) asset on Lake Street.

Streets and sidewalks

While portions of Lake Street are open to traffic, crews continue to finalize work on the streets and sidewalks. By opening the streets to traffic in this phased approach, access to businesses has increased. Please continue to follow detour signs and avoid construction zones to ensure everyone's safety.