HIGH RIVER, AB: Marking another step forward in High River’s reconstruction, work on 4 Avenue S.W. is substantially complete and the road will be reopened to vehicle traffic on Friday, Dec. 5. Along with upgrades to underground utilities, improvements include moving to two-way traffic flow and parallel parking.
“The improvements being made to the downtown are very progressive, retail-friendly decisions that will make the entire area more inviting for residents, businesses, and visitors,” said Mayor Craig Snodgrass.
The change to parallel parking and two-way traffic is part of the overall Downtown Area Redevelopment Plan that is being developed.
Fourth Avenue has been designed with a greater focus on pedestrian access and the ability to close the street entirely for special events.
Introducing parallel parking has allowed the sidewalks to be widened, creating a more pedestrian friendly thoroughfare that encourages people to stroll through downtown and gives business owners the space to extend their retail space outside.
Other improvements to 4 Avenue S.W. include traffic-slowing measures by way of a narrower street and a bent travel lane.
Finishing work on sidewalks, boulevards and tree trenches will be completed in the spring.
The repair and reconstruction of downtown is part of High River’s multi-year infrastructure program that was made possible by a $15 million Critical Infrastructure Grant from the Government of Alberta.