Wharton Street in Summerland is blocked as crews are working on an upgrade to the downtown street.
The Wharton Street Revitalization Project, with a price tag of $8.557 million, is the first major initiative under Summerland’s Downtown Neighbourhood Action Plan.
The work includes water, sewer, stormwater and electrical system work. It will also include changes to the roadway, relocating overhead power lines, reconfiguring parking and traffic flow and adding all-season washrooms.
The portion of Henry Avenue from Main Street to Wharton Street will become the Henry Avenue Plaza, an area closed to vehicle traffic, featuring an upgraded cenotaph, seating, lighting, flag poles and electrical power.
During the construction, access on Wharton Street will be restricted.
Noise and dust are also expected to increase, and traffic delays and detours are also in place, along with temporary parking changes.
The work is expected to be completed by Remembrance Day in November, although some electrical work could be finished in 2026.
While Memorial Park remains open, access to the park is affected during the construction. However, the work on Henry Avenue is scheduled to be filled in to allow access to the park for the Summerland Action Festival, to be held this weekend.
