Niagara Falls recently approved $250,000 to construct an extension of the Fallsview pedestrian walkway – a move councillors say will create a strategic linkage from the Fallsview Casino Entertainment Centre theatre to parking lot facilities.
“In consideration of the reduced tourist activity brought about by the current pandemic, staff have recognized this opportunity to implement the extension of the existing Fallsview pedestrian walkway extension up to Robinson Street with less disruption than usual,” said a staff report recently before city council.
The project will be funded through parkland dedication contributions received via development applications in the Fallsview tourist district.
“A pedestrian linkage is presently available from the Fallsview Casino across Murray Street leading approximately 100 metres northerly, terminating at connection points to the Skylon Tower and adjacent parking areas,” said the report.
According to a staff report, the COVID-19 pandemic provides a “short window” of reduced pedestrian and tourist activity.
Taking advantage of competitive unit prices, staff negotiated with the current vendors currently under contract for sidewalk repair and landscape restoration – Gauboc Construction and Lawns and More respectively – for an extension of their contract to complete the works.
Work has begun to survey and prepare the lands for the improvements and the concrete pathway is expected to be completed by the end of August. It will include a five-metre wide path, tree plantings, restoration and benches and lighting.
Construction of the pedestrian walkway extension is expected to cost $250,000 as follows:
- $90,000 for the concrete surface,
- $21,000 for sodding, trees, benches, and restoration,
- $25,000 for grading, soil and seeding, and
- $24,000 for engineering, administration and contingency.
- $90,000 for lighting (design to be completed now, construction to follow in late
- 2020 or early 2021)