For Immediate Release: 12/14/2015 9:11 am
Worcester, MA (December 14, 2015) - Two of the City's major thoroughfares - including one of its main commercial corridors - are in line for major improvements in 2016.
The City of Worcester expects to put out to bid this month a project to repave the entirety of Shrewsbury Street and reconstruct a large portion of Hamilton Street and its sidewalks, City Manager Edward M. Augustus, Jr. announced Monday.
"Keeping up our infrastructure is one of the most critical things city government can do to promote economic development and maintain quality of life for our residents," said Augustus. "Last year, the City invested $21.5 million in our streets and sidewalks, and this project continues that commitment to maintaining our roads."
Hamilton Street will get roadway surface rehabilitation, curbing repairs/replacement and new concrete sidewalks, from 300 feet east of Plantation Street to Coburn Ave. On Shrewsbury Street, where the City recently replaced sidewalks, the project will entail resurfacing of the roadway. Spot sidewalk improvements will be made as needed.
"Keeping our street safe and beautiful is part of making our city more vibrant and livable," said Mayor Joseph M. Petty. "These improvements take so many partners from the state, our city departments and our neighborhoods. I want to thank everyone who has worked to move this project forward."
The project is expected to cost roughly $3.6 million, and will be funded through CSX mitigation funds provided by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
"Partnering with our cities and towns to improve transportation infrastructure is one of state government's most important roles in fostering revitalization and economic development," said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. "We look forward to seeing these repairs and upgrades taking place to benefit the Worcester community's residents and commercial activity."
Work is expected to begin in April and finish in the fall of 2016.
"As one of our most vibrant and successful commercial corridors, Shrewsbury Street draws diners and visitors from all over, so it's crucial we keep the street in top-notch condition," said District Two City Councilor Phil Palmieri. "I'm thrilled the road will be reconstructed, which will nicely complement recent sidewalk improvements. I want to thank the City Manager for working with the state to get this done."
"Streets and sidewalks are the backbone of a healthy city, and it's our job to make sure they're in the best possible condition. A year from now, we will have another newly paved street and improved sidewalks that will make our city more walkable and drivable. Thank you to everyone involved," said District Three Councilor George Russell.
