The City of Salem is moving forward with making improvements to the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall.
The work consists of removing three landscaping beds in front of 197-201, 213, 215, and 226 Essex Street. These areas will be filled in with brick to match the existing pattern.
Mayor Kimberley Driscoll said, “The pedestrian mall is an important amenity downtown, and I’m pleased to move forward with this needed work. The project will make it safer for pedestrians and will increase visibility for businesses.”
In response to requests from merchants, the City adjusted the construction schedule so no work would occur during July or October. In addition, the City has minimized construction in August as much as possible. Construction will begin on Monday, August 20, 2012 and will end no later than Friday, September 28, 2012.
Design discussions focused on the next phase of improvements will be held this fall. Elements that may be included in the next phase are removing the fountain at Washington Street and redesigning the area, removing the kiosk and other landscaping beds, addressing the treatment of the cobblestone areas, proposing new street furniture, planting trees, and opportunities for public art.
People interested in receiving updates on the project can sign up for e-mail updates at www.salem.com under the “E-mail Subscriber” button.
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