The Paris Independent
4
February 5, 2022
COMMUNITY NEWS Market Street Upgrades For now, phase 1 will focus on minor adjustments to the road’s asphalt width, some existing entrances to businesses will be adjusted to improve traffic flow and road safety and tactile plates will be installed on sidewalks at street intersections, added Maxwell. One concerned citizen on EngageBrant suggested the county implement a four way stop with well marked pedestrian crossings at Market Street and Spruce Streets. They’d also like to see Market Street widened to allow for a left turning lane as you approach the railway. Too often cars veer onto the opposite side of the road to make a left-hand turn onto Capron Street when traffic is backed up because trains are crossing. Phase 2 of the project will require more public feedback. It will address more serious pedestrian safety concerns. Reconstruction efforts will focus on Broadway Street West from Railway Street to West River Street. One major change will include the creation of a sidewalk on the east side of Broadway Street W and installing better lighting for pedestrians. This section of roadway is a busy artery that connects Paris’ downtown to its north end. Many residents walk, run and cycle this roadway often and it is the only roadway that provides access to the trails at Penman’s Pass.
Once work commences in early Spring, Maxwell advised there will be traffic interruptions on Market Street. “Because of the depth of sewers, which are 8 m deep in some areas, the road will need to be completely closed to thru-traffic. The work will be phased so that access is maintained to businesses and affected homeowners will be able to access their driveways at almost all times.” Residents are encouraged to review drawings and submit comments through EngageBrant, although people can engage in conversation in a method that’s most comfortable for them – by phone, email, social media or in-person discussion, said Maxwell.
