Main St. makeover set to begin

 

Two blocks to get facelift

By Jonathan Cook

Turley Publication Reporter

WARREN – Begun in 2004 as part of a vision set forth by the Community Development Advisory Committee, the downtown makeover is about to begin.

While last minute snags have caused a minor delay, Chris Dunphy of the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission says construction is imminent.

“Set up work has begun,” he said, and police have worked out a traffic plan. Also, the contractor, Morais Concrete Service of Springfield has placed Jersey barriers along with an excavator at the site.

While Dunphy says construction can begin, there are a few details to be ironed out before it can be completed.

First, a building permit regarding work on the storefronts needs to be finalized. “It was just a matter of not getting the building inspector information as complete as could be in time. But he is reviewing that now,” said Dunphy. “They could certainly begin construction.”

Also, a public hearing will be held regarding several Norway maple trees planted in the sidewalk. Those trees need to be removed to make space for the expanded sidewalk and access ramps. Dunphy said they are an invasive species and container planting will be installed to keep vegetation along the walkway.

Building owners are excited, said Dunphy. “They want to see it done and see it done properly.”

The project includes construction of concrete walks, stairs, landings and ramps, replacement of sewer service connections as well as water connections along two blocks of Warren Center storefronts.

The plan was designed by Lenard Engineering, the same company that designed the Bacon St. improvement as well as the Hobo Gendron Park renovation.

Parking is limited to five spaces and the roadway will be narrowed to allow for construction equipment to operate. Police recommend parking across the street until construction is complete. Although, Chief Bruce Spiewakowski points out caution is needed in crossing the street, especially in the morning when solar glare can make it difficult for drivers to see.

On another note, Dunphy said the portion of the plan to redesign the intersection there has been approved for funding by the Department of Transportation.