Watch for road crews in Vermilion

On Wednesday, the Town of Vermilion will begin work on 47 Avenue from 51 Street-52 Street – the first of three road construction projects expected in the coming days.

Pavement overlays will also be completed on 50 Avenue from 51 Street-52 Street, and along 57 Street from College Drive north.

There will also be a new sidewalk installed along College Drive from 54 Street-55 Street.

“Ultimately, there is deterioration past the point of preventative maintenance,” said Derek Young, Director of Transportation and Utilities.

“There are potholes, rutting, breakage and in some areas we will be improving drainage. An overlay is less costly, and so we want to do it before the sub-grade fails.”

These projects are funded primarily by the federal gas tax and in part by the local improvement levy.

The levy is a 60-40 split with 60 per cent paid by the town, and 40 per cent paid by the landowner.

Young was really happy to see the projects moving forward.

“These are key pieces to our infrastructure, as two of them are main roads in the community. There is never a good time for construction but in the end, it will provide a less disruptive road for the users.”

He also wanted to thank everyone in advance for their patience.

Drivers are reminded to watch for detours, and take notice that once complete, a new turning lane will be in place at the intersection next to Highway 41 (next to Co-op Gas Bar).

To view detailed images, you can visit vermilion.ca.