Construction work for Argyle and Grafton shared streetscape project commences June 1, 2017

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Monday, May 29, 2017 (Halifax, NS) - The Halifax Regional Municipality is advising residents and motorists that the Argyle and Grafton shared streetscape project will begin construction on June 1, 2017, evolving the urban core into a more people-focused and vibrant downtown.    Sections of Argyle and Grafton Streets will be transformed into a unique shared space – allowing pedestrians, cyclists and motorists to safety travel and enjoy this space together.   Project Duration and Public Access   Construction work will commence on June 1, 2017 with a targeted completion of late September.   Installation of fencing and hoarding will begin during the early morning hours of June 1, which will initiate the approximately 17-week closure of vehicle traffic on the following streets:   • Argyle Street between Blowers and Sackville Streets • Argyle Street between Sackville and Prince Streets • Grafton Street between Prince and Carmichael Streets   Vehicle access to parking garages and Avis Rent a Car will remain open. Pedestrian access to every doorway in the project area will always be maintained.   Businesses in the project area remain open during construction. A map of the construction area, loading zones and nearby parking is available at halifax.ca/argyleandgrafton   Construction is taking place in the summer to give the project the best chance to be completed before the fall weather starts.  The streetscape includes high-quality finishes that need to be installed under optimal weather conditions. Cold temperatures, frost, and water infiltration would compromise the quality and durability of the installations.   The municipality will be working with the project contractors to ensure disturbances are minimized as much as possible and regular updates will be provided to the public regarding project progress.   Evolution of Popular Entertainment District   The $5.5 million project includes a completely new streetscape design for Argyle Street between Blowers and Prince Streets and for Grafton Street between Prince and Carmichael Streets. The project also includes sidewalk enhancements on Prince and Carmichael Streets between Argyle and Grafton Streets.   The new streetscape will be curbless, facilitating accessibility and allowing sidewalk cafés to remain in place year-round. Accessible parking and loading zones will be maintained alongside improved pedestrian areas and new trees will be planted along Argyle and Grafton Streets using innovative below-surface soil cells. At night, an LED light canopy will criss-cross overhead and illuminate a section of the street in this popular entertainment district.   For more information about the Argyle and Grafton shared streetscape project visit halifax.ca/argyleandgrafton, call 311, follow @hfxplanning – the municipality’s Twitter account for planning projects,  Facebook at Halifax Planning and use the hashtag #ArgyleGrafton.   -30-