Streetscape project has torn up Oakdale block longer than planned. End is in sight
Merchants on a downtown Oakdale block could see the end next month of a streetscape renovation that has limited customer access since May.
The project on the 100 block of North Third Avenue was supposed to take until September. It required closing the street to motor vehicles and having pedestrians use narrow walkways to businesses.
At the Jan. 17 meeting of the City Council, City Manager Bryan Whitemyer cited two reasons for the delay. The first was when PG&E needed more time to replace gas and electric lines in the street. This winter’s heavy rain then kept the city’s contractor from laying brick pavers, the final piece of the project.
Whitemyer estimated the work could take two to three more weeks if the weather is dry, meaning completion perhaps by early February. The project will bring benches, widened crosswalks and other pedestrian-friendly touches.
United Pavement Maintenance of Hughson is doing the work on a $2.42 million contract with the city. Oakdale paid for it with federal pandemic relief money, fuel taxes and local funds for street, water and sewer repairs.
The city provided $100,000 in relief in August after merchants complained of reduced income. Whitemyer said at the recent meeting that they also could file claims with PG&E.
Sixteen businesses line the block, including four boutiques, three eateries, two hair salons, a bakery, a dry cleaner, a bank and more.
The city staff has planned the project over about five years and held several meetings with business owners about the expected impacts.
