BonnerSprings.com

When the Front Street construction project started in October 2009, Matt Beets, Bonner Springs project manager, knew it was going to be complicated.

Between keeping traffic moving and construction on schedule, Beets has also had to deal with making sure businesses aren’t being overly negatively affected by the street improvements.

“Knowing that Front Street is one of the busiest streets in Bonner Springs, it has been a challenge,” Beets said.

Throughout construction on the project, which includes installation of new sewer and water mains, in addition to storm inlets, Beets said the crews from Redford Construction have been working with business owners on a case-by-case basis, making sure to lesson the construction impact. He said crews are trying to keep business owners informed about what to expect.

The project is expected to be completed in August.

Across the street at Midwest Motors, 215 East Front St., co-owner Simon Gallagher, said he is also hoping the project speeds up.

“It’s a long haul but I know when they’re done it should be a lot nicer,” Gallagher said. “Hopefully they’ll get done sooner rather than later.”

Gallagher’s biggest complaints have to do with people cutting through his lot to get around the construction and the dust caused by the work.

As a business that sells custom bikes and used cars, Gallagher said keeping his product clean and looking nice has been a challenge. He said his workers have been spraying down the parking lot trying to keep the dust at bay.

For more on this topic, see the March 18 edition of the Chieftain.

Comments