If you plan on driving down Rideau Street, you'll notice flashing lights and heavy duty machinery. Police are in place as construction crews work hard to make way for a new streetscape.
Monday morning's work started between King Edward Avenue and Dalhousie Street. Traffic impacts will begin July 9th when Rideau Street's eastbound lanes will be closed from King Edward to Dalhousie. Traffic will be redirected to Besserer Street.
City officials say the short-term traffic impact will be well worth the long-term benefits of replacing aging infrastructure and bringing an overall new look to the downtown core.
Plans include eventually replacing sidewalks, cycling infrastructure, street lighting, signage, watermains, and parts of the sewer system.
There will also be opportunities for public art.
Some residents are concerned about the impact the multi-million dollar project will have on traffic and area businesses.
Sidewalks and businesses are expected to stay open during the construction phases.
