Montpelier’s State Street is on the brink of major upheaval with a construction project set to kick off on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, lasting through June. The initiative aims to address stormwater management issues plaguing the area, particularly during heavy rain, by creating a new outlet for runoff from East State Street. Justin LaPerle, an engineer with the Montpelier Department of Public Works, sheds light on the necessity of this project to combat combined sewer overflows.
City in Transition: Businesses Brace for Impact
As the construction gears up, State Street will only be open to westbound traffic between Main and Elm streets for an extended period, leaving many local business owners feeling apprehensive about potential economic disruptions. Lauren Parker, owner of North Branch Cafe, highlights the challenge faced by the community with the lack of advanced notice and effective communication regarding the project. The city’s Long Term Control Plan, dating back to 2019, laid the groundwork for this construction, emphasizing the importance of reducing combined sewage overflow.
Community Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Despite the uncertainties surrounding the construction timeline, businesses like Wylding, Rebel Heart, and Enna are devising strategies to weather the storm. Jenny Sebold of Wylding and Rebel Heart expresses hope for her floral business’s resilience through alternate revenue streams like phone orders and online deliveries. Shannon Bates of Enna, renowned for its gelato, shares her innovative approach with a mobile gelato cart to mitigate any potential decline in foot traffic.
The road ahead may be uncertain, but with collaborative efforts and effective communication, the Montpelier community is gearing up to navigate the challenges posed by the State Street construction project. Stay updated on project developments through the city’s website and local business announcements, and remember to continue supporting the vibrant local economy amidst the construction chaos.
