For Ithaca residents, it's a project that feels like it's been dragging on forever. But after several delays, the Ithaca Commons reconstruction is finally starting to take shape. As our Brent Fox tells us, those behind the project are excited to be moving into the final phase.
ITHACA, N.Y. -- It was a project that began two years ago. But now one month in to the final leg of construction, the Ithaca Commons are starting to look like the finished product.
"We're doing great. As far as the progress we expected between March and this summer, we're doing fantastic out here. The weather's really been cooperating with us," said Michael Kuo, Ithaca Commons Project Manager.
There were many delays caused by sewer issues and the harsh winters. Now the new lightposts are in and the pavers are being put down. But even with the progress there are still issues.
"It's been really challenging to try and maintain pedestrian access to all of the store fronts and all of the businesses, but we've been able to do that. Not comfortably all the time, but we've always been able to at least give one way access," said Kuo.
Some business owners see this as only a minor inconvenience since it means the work is getting done.
"Things seem to be going quite a lot smoother and at a much faster pace, so we're excited about that," said David Wrisley, owner of Schooleys.
"The next step will see the chain link fences removed, the pavers finished, and the landscaping crews will be able to begin their work."
"The thing I'm looking forward to most is landscaping plantings. I mean the paving has to come in front of that and that is exciting because the chain link fence kind of goes away and the site just gets bigger and it becomes more public andd less of a construction area," said Kuo.
The businesses on the Commons may have seen a decrease in foot traffic during construction, but they know things will be getting better.
"It is important to work with construction people and you know get through this together. And we're very anxious for it to be over," said Wrisley.
If the work stays on schedule, the Ithaca Commons should be finished by July with a big celebration planned for the end of August.