BIDDEFORD — The South Street sidewalk reconstruction project is set to begin on Monday, March 29 and city officials say it may impact traffic flow on South Street between Elm and Jefferson streets.

The project involves one-for-one replacement of granite sidewalks, resetting of curbs, and the placement of ADA curb cuts and crosswalk pavers. New sidewalks and crossings will create more pedestrian-friendly, accessible routes, as well as a new, fresh look, said Biddeford Communications Coordinator Danica Lamontagne.

The project also includes installation of 300 feet of storm water pipe, grinding of the roadway, and newly added pavement. The storm drain work will assist the city with meeting the goals of its separation program, which is required by the Department of Environmental Protection to prevent wastewater from draining into bodies of water during major storms.

Expected impacts during the project period includes possible detours, one-way alternating traffic, and sidewalk closures. Community members are asked to expect delays and seek alternate routes when possible.

Beginning on March 28 until the completion of the project, parking will be prohibited within the construction area. Cars that are parked in restricted areas may be towed, said Lamontagne.

“Our crews will make every effort to minimize any temporary inconvenience these projects may cause,” said Public Works Director Jeff Demers. “We thank all residents and business owners for their patience and understanding as we complete these necessary improvements to our infrastructure.”

The city received two bids for the project, from Aceto Construction of Buxton in the amount of $412,955 and a $456,000 bid from Dearborn Construction, also of Buxton.

In a memo to the City Council, Gail Wilkerson of the city’s CDBG Rehab Program and Demers recommended the Dearborn bid.

“Though Aceto’s is the low bid, it is missing seven requested documents, including certifications required by HUD, a traffic management plan, and a temporary services plan,” they wrote. As well, they said the lower bid didn’t address an addendum, though it certified that it received the instructions for it.

The CDBG project budget is $317,000 for construction and engineering, and Biddeford Public Works has committed $149,000 from its road construction improvements budget for the work, as well as $13,000 in professional services for site inspection, according to the memo.

The council approved the bid without comment.

The project is estimated to take about two months to complete.

Copy the Story Link

Comments are not available on this story.