Broad Street could soon look totally different. And, perhaps to remind residents of that - as well as to make them aware of several different construction projects that are or will be ongoing on Broad Street shortly - Director of Neighborhood Services and Economic Development Mark Pellegrini released a statement Wednesday noting much of the activity that will soon begin and that has already begun to transform the area.
"The physical changes to the Broad Street Redevelopment Area are in full swing. The contractor began the demolition work on the former . The asbestos is being removed from the roofs and the buildings themselves will begin to come down very soon. We expect that by mid to late June the buildings will be completely removed from the site. The buildings to be demolished include the former Stop & Shop, Bradlees and the in-line stores of the main building, and the building that housed Marshall’s, CVS, and other stores," Pellegrini said.
An informal ceremony to mark the official beginning of the is scheduled for Monday morning, May 7.
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Pellegrini also noted that the project is "well underway."
"The first phase of the work involves the relocation of utilities. The next major construction activity will be the replacement of the Bigelow Brook culvert," Pellegrini said. "The town and the contractor are committed to maintaining one lane of traffic in each direction throughout the course of the reconstruction project. There will be access to all Broad Street businesses at all times. Motorists will always have access and are encouraged to continue to patronize and support our Broad Street businesses during the reconstruction project. There will be some minor inconveniences so we encourage Broad Street patrons to, when possible, allow for a little extra time for temporary traffic delays."
Pellegrini also wanted to remind residents that the is still open and will be open throughout the demolition of the parkade and the reconstruction of Broad Street.
"The Parkade Cinemas is not going to be demolished," Pellegrini said. "Parkade Cinemas is a privately owned and ongoing business that is still in operation. The cinemas can be accessed off of Green Manor Boulevard either from Broad Street or from Middle Turnpike West. Parkade Cinemas is located in a portion of the redevelopment area that the Agency has identified as a desirable location for an entertainment cluster of activities to support the overall redevelopment plan."
