Main Street opening soon

Photo: Deborah Pfeiffer

The construction project on Penticton's Main Street is just days away from completion.

As part of the downtown revitalization project, the 200 block of Main Street will re-open this Saturday on schedule.

“Downtown revitalization is a council strategic priority and this project helped address much needed infrastructure improvements while at the same time created a fresh and welcoming downtown core so we can promote a vibrant atmosphere for people to gather, shop, and enjoy," said Mayor Jakubeit, who will do the ribbon cutting honours on Saturday.

The project, which was completed on time and within budget, is the culmination of four years of work by city staff, the downtown committee, the Downtown Penticton Association, downtown businesses and many further stakeholders that have been involved in this project.

DPA executive director Kerri Milton said they are excited to see the grand re-opening and that landowners and business owners have been waiting patiently for this day to share their block with the public.

Christina Conquergood, owner of Peaches Lingerie, admits it was a bit slow during the construction but it was nothing they weren't prepared for.

"We had good communication from the Downtown Penticton Association on dates and the week to week schedule of improvements," she said. "And now that it's completed I feel excited and anticipate nothing but good responses."

The city also had good words for  Grizzly Excavating, the contractor that was awarded the project.

Throughout construction the city has received positive feedback from community members and merchants alike on the professional nature of their team.

"I think I can speak for all Grizzly Excavating employees and sub trades in saying thank you to the downtown businesses and their patrons during this project," said Pat Neil of Grizzly Excavating. "Without their support and patience with this project it would not have been as easy or enjoyable to complete.”

In total the  project has logged over 12,000 local hours of work for the community.

Plans for the revitalization of the 100 block of Main Street will get underway in September after the busy summer season. 

The re-welcoming of the community and ribbon cutting are set for 10 a.m., Saturday, June 18 at the Westminster intersection of Main Street.

Jakubeit, along with council members, MP Richard Cannings, MLA Dan Ashton and the Downtown Penticton Association will be at the ceremony.