HUNTSVILLE, ON- The traffic headaches in Huntsville will carry on over the holidays.
According to a recent statement by the District of Muskoka given to Muskoka Post, a significant amount of rock has been found between Church and Fairy Streets, which will require blasting. Both the district and the contractor completing the work are looking at low explosive methods to reduce noise and interference with day to day businesses in the area.
The statement says that the project remains on schedule, with weather allowing work to be completed over the last two weeks.
JB Enterprises acknowledged pedestrian concerns regarding the crossing at the King William intersection from the Fair Street side. The company has set up a temporary push button to help people cross, which will be monitored to ensure pedestrian safety.
Construction on the south side including installation of sub-drains and placement of granulars from the Muskoka River bridge to Church Street is next on the docket.
Changes are being made to the traffic plan to accommodate for recent project delays.
Eastbound traffic on King William Street is reduced to one lane as construction continues throughout the week to help work at John Street.
To try and make up for some recent project delays due to underground utility conflicts and additional rock volumes, there have been changes made to the Traffic Plan.
In order to access the downtown area, westbound King William Street traffic is being detoured onto Cann Street to Chaffey Street and north to Center Street.
Turns or access, in general, will be prohibited via John Street and only local traffic from the west will have access to businesses on Cann Street. Eastbound traffic will use King William Street.
Another major closure over the weekend to be aware of is the intersection of King William and John Street. It will reopen as work progresses.
Drivers and pedestrians are being asked to do there part in keeping themselves and workers safe during construction.
The District of Muskoka gave the following tips:
· Slow down and proceed with caution;
· Watch for construction crews;
· Watch for pedestrians;
· Pay attention to all signs – normal speed limits will be reduced and traffic lanes may have changed;
· Follow the posted detour route;
· Be patient and expect delays;
· Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and construction workers, equipment and traffic barriers.
During this work, the district, along with the Town of Huntsville, said construction will be monitored, communication will continue and both will look for ways to minimize impacts to the community. They will try to juggle those priorities while making sure construction remains on schedule to meet deadlines.