700 Block of 3 Avenue to re-open as Reconstruction Project Continues
The block of 3 Avenue South between 7 Street and 8 Street is set to re-open to vehicle traffic later today, Friday, July 16.
This area is part of the 3 Avenue South Reconstruction Project between 4 Street and 8 Street in Downtown Lethbridge. Work has already started on the next project phase, between 4 Street and 5 Street – which is now closed. North-south traffic on 4 Street remains open at this stage, with a new, temporary three-way stop to be in place.
Starting Monday, July 19, the intersection at 3 Avenue and 5 Street will be fully closed with temporary turnarounds in place.
A full project completion date is targeted for Fall 2021. An art installation on the construction fencing is underway, which will give people something to come and take a look at during 3 Avenue construction.
Background:
As one of the oldest streets in Lethbridge, 3 Avenue South has always been a vital part of the community, once serving as the main east/west highway through the city. This project will not only provide important utility and infrastructure upgrades to the street but it will also enhance the aesthetics of 3 Avenue.
Major enhancements began in 2020 to our downtown by installing reliable infrastructure and they will ultimately create a street that is a safe, lively, accessible and beautiful. When completed, 3 Avenue will boast Lethbridge's first streetscaped design. Streetscaping brings together all of the elements that will give 3 Avenue character and make it functional like lighting, seating, paving materials and plants/trees.
Originating in the Public Realm and Transportation Study (PRATS) (2012), this project was approved by City Council in the current Capital Improvement Program with a total budget of just over $10 million. A full breakdown of funding sources can be found here: https://www.lethbridge.ca/living-here/Projects-Initiatives/Current-Projects/Pages/3AveReconstruction.aspx
Extensive public and stakeholder engagement leading up to the launch of the project and will continue that through the duration of the construction to keep everyone update on progress. For more information on this project visit https://getinvolvedlethbridge.ca/third-avenue or stop by the project office at 616 3 Avenue South.
