Central Street will continue to be closed to through traffic in sections between Benton and Clay Avenues between 7 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., daily, for the duration of the Central Street Corridor Phase II project construction. Project completion is anticipated in December.
The City will continue to coordinate with Drury University and Central High School on specific impacts to their campuses and operations as the school year begins.
Through traffic is advised to follow the marked detour via Sherman Avenue, Calhoun Street and Benton Avenue.
About the Central Street Corridor Phase II Project
The Central Street Corridor Phase II project will continue “complete streets” improvements along Central Street between Benton Avenue and Clay Avenue, including a multi-use path on the north side of Central and a sidewalk on the south side. Intersection and signal improvements will be made at Central Street and Drury Lane. Underground stormwater infrastructure will be included as well as the installation of a small rain garden at Central and Clay to help improve water quality. The project will also incorporate on-street parking, decorative street lighting and a grass-covered median. Gas, water, electrical and fiber utilities will be updated within the project boundaries.
A complete street network is one that is planned, designed, constructed, operated and maintained to service pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, and transit riders of all ages to safely and efficiently travel. The City formally adopted its Complete Streets Policy in 2014. The complete streets effort aligns with a consistent call from citizens for a more walkable community, heard in citizen surveys and throughout the Forward SGF comprehensive planning process.
The Phase II project is expected to cost $2.1 million and will be funded through the 1/8-cent Transportation Sales Tax with reimbursements from City Utilities for the utility upgrades. Completion is anticipated by the end of the year.
For more information, visit the Central Street Corridor Phase II project webpage.