If the weather cooperates, construction on South Commerce Street could be completed by July 3.
Earlier projections had predicted the paving would be done by July 17.
“We think we can” have the street paved before July 4, said David Rule, of Rule Construction, project contractor, during a project update meeting last week.
“The project so far has been really, really good,” said Mark Digman, project designer and manager with Delta 3 Engineering.
Started about a month ago, the project that began on South Commerce from 200 feet south of Old Darlington Road to Fountain Street includes sanitary sewer, water main, storm sewer, street lighting and street replacement.
Other phases of the project include sanitary sewer, storm sewer, street lighting and street replacement on South Street from Vine Street to South Commerce.
On Vine Street from High Street to Fountain, sidewalk and curb and gutter will be replaced.
The entire project has a Sept. 4 deadline.
“This round, we feel like there are more people around on site who you can find to ask questions,” said Hans Hansen, of The Sweet Life Ice Cream Parlor and Federal Restoration Studio. “We appreciate having people on site to respond.”
Four members of the public attended the update.
“If there is ever any problem, don’t hesitate to call us right away. Don’t let it fester,” Digman said.
Contacted separately from the meeting, business owners said they are grateful for communication and customer loyalty.
“The construction has had some effect on business,” said Sean Henninger of Popolo. “The crews have been great to work with, very understanding. They have their job to do and are doing their best. They have the street open for passage every day before we open.”
At an earlier meeting, Henninger offered to prepare lunch for the crew, even though the restaurant is not usually open then. “We haven’t made them lunch yet but are looking forward to it in the near future,” he said. Businesses are open during construction.
“Our local area dinner guests have been amazing,” said Mike Zupke of Commerce Street Brewery Hotel. “They come in, despite the small bit of hassle in getting here and parking. To be honest, we’re lucky to have such great customers and friends. There are a lot of supporters in town and in the area. Is business up or down? That’s so tough to say in the off season, but in general, we’re doing okay.”