Work begins on Central

By Becky Uehling

Grant Tribune-Sentinel 

After months of delay, the long-awaited work on Central Ave. in Grant has begun.

Projected to cost $1.5 million, the work will entail replacing gutter, curb and concrete along Central Ave., from 1st Street to 5th Street, according to Grant City Superintendent Edward Dunn. The overhead electrical lines will also be buried underground, with the old light poles removed, he said. 

With the late start, Dunn is asking for the community’s patience.

“Everyone involved will do everything in our power to minimize disruption to each of the businesses downtown,” he said. 

 Dunn continued saying as long as the weather is nice, the work will progress through the winter. The contracted completion date of the project is July 31, 2023. However, if things go smoothly, the work could be done well before that, he said. 

Dunn understands there are activities coming up that are normally held on Central Ave., including Trick or Treat Street, and the annual Christmas Open House. He said every step will be taken to ensure these events have little disruption. 

“Safety is the number one priority, and we will take steps to ensure the events are successful,” he said.

Contractors for the project are Level LLC from North Platte, Potts Electric, Midwest Electric, T.C. Engineering and SES Engineering.

The money for the project is coming from the City’s electric cash reserves and being passed through the economic development fund, Dunn said. 

Ice Melt

Because of the new concrete along Central, the City will provide a special ice melt mix to downtown businesses for the upcoming 2022-23 winter, Dunn said. Businesses are asked to contact the City offices for more information.