MAYOR DOMENIC J. SARNO AND SPRINGFIELD’S CHIEF DEVELOPMENT OFFICER JOHN JUDGE ANNOUNCE MAIN STREET CONSTRUCTION PROJECT DETAILS
September 17, 2009 - Mayor Domenic J. Sarno and Chief Development Officer John Judge announced today that construction on Main Street in the City’s South End neighborhood is underway. The much anticipated Main Street improvements project is part of the overall South End Revitalization Plan. This Plan calls for streetscape improvements along Main Street from downtown to the intersection of Locust Street and other infrastructure improvements to Dwight Street Extension in the Hollywood district. The planning and design of this project were completed with CDBG and DHCD grant funds while the construction will be paid for with City Bond funds.
Mayor Domenic J. Sarno stated that “this project will mirror the type of public investment that was made on the State Street project which in turn has spurred private investment along the State Street corridor.” Mayor Sarno is pleased that this project is finally moving forward and extended his appreciation to city residents for their ongoing patience while this project moves forward
“South End Main Street is an important gateway into the City and the front door of many established businesses. This major investment into public infrastructure is essential in order to improve the business climate and turn around the neighborhood”, said John Judge, Springfield’s Chief Development Officer.
Baltazar Contractors Inc., has been hired to carry out the 9-month construction project. It is anticipated that construction will shut down during the winter from December 15th through March 15th. The overall project is expected to be completed by June 2010. The total estimated cost of construction is $3.2 million.
The South End Revitalization Plan was developed through a collaborative process initiated by the City and the Urban Land Institute with substantial input from city-wide stakeholders and neighborhood residents.
Residents can obtain additional information about the construction project through the South End Revitalization Coalition website, www.Springfield-MA.gov/SouthEndProject
Additional information on the overall South End Revitalization Plan is available at the South End Citizens Council Office located at 549 Main Street.