Essex seeks Harrow patience

With the multi-million-dollar Harrow Streetscape Project continuing, the Town of Essex is asking for patience from residents and local business owners impacted by ongoing construction.

“Certainly we recognize that a project of this scale is going to have an impact on residents and business owners, and we’re doing everything we can to help minimize the impact to them during construction,” Mayor Larry Snively said in a news release last week.

“However, while construction will be happening throughout the summer, the impact of that work will be enjoyed for decades to come. As a Council, we are excited to see our community’s vision become a reality and we can’t wait to cut the ribbon on this landmark project.”

The project, which represents a more than $5 million investment into the downtown core of Harrow, includes new roads, significant upgrades of storm sewer and watermain infrastructure, as well as the addition of urban design improvements and a variety of streetscape elements including AODA-compliant sidewalks/crosswalks, curbs, bicycle racks, landscape treatments and plantings, and new street lighting.

Throughout construction all businesses remain open and to minimize impact during construction, the town’s Manager of Capital Works, Richard Beausoleil, has continued meeting with local residents and businesses to hear their concerns and discuss solutions.

Tammy Affleck, president of the Harrow & Colchester South Chamber of Commerce, met with Beausoleil early in the construction phase to discuss potential impacts.

“This is a project that was started a number of years ago and I’d like to thank everyone who worked on the development of this vision,” Affleck said.

“It will be a challenging time as we go through the construction phase but it will be a refresh for our downtown which is long overdue and will help us become the destination that we want to be. As construction continues, I’d ask that everyone support our local businesses and show patience with construction workers.”

In May, the town launched the #HarrowStreetscape Special, a social-media campaign to highlight Harrow businesses and promote the importance of supporting local. The Friday, May 28 special features Godfather’s Pizza, a business located in the heart of the construction area.

As work continued through the pandemic, contractors and town staff have followed all mandated guidelines for construction sites. All residents are asked to follow physical distancing practices for their safety.

Project timelines, images, design documents, and project contacts can be found online at Harrow Streetscape.

Work is currently in the first of three phases and construction on the project is expected to be completed this fall.

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