3 Avenue Reconstruction gets underway

3 Avenue Reconstruction gets underway

An exciting project in Downtown Lethbridge will get underway this week when reconstruction starts on 3 Avenue South from 4 to 8 Street.

As one of the oldest streets in Lethbridge, 3 Avenues 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.

“We are really excited to get started on the 3 Ave. S. Reconstruction project,” says Project Manager, Crystal Scheit from the City’s Transportation Department. “Over the next two years, major enhancements will be made to our downtown by installing reliable infrastructure and creating a street that is a safe, lively, accessible and beautiful.”

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.

“Despite the impacts of COVID-19, Council decided to move forward with this important project,” says City Councillor Mark Campbell. “This is vital to the revitalization of Downtown and the project will help with our continued economic recovery.”

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.

“This is a major construction project and we understand that this will be disruptive but we’re make every effort to minimize the impact on residents and the businesses.” says Andrew Malcolm, Urban Revitalization Manager for the City of Lethbridge. “We’ve done 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 updated on progress.”

Adding the 3 Ave Reconstruction project to the overall downtown revitalization efforts will attract more people and activity to the city centre which will, in turn, contribute to a clean and safe downtown.

Current Construction Impact
Starting Wednesday, July 29, 3 Avenue South will be closed from 6 Street to 7 Street as construction work begins. Residents should expect closures rotating throughout the project area from now until the project completion expected in the fall of 2021. Motorists are advised to drive with caution in this area and follow posted detours.