THOMASVILLE, Ga. (WTXL) — Those living in Thomasville will see construction popping up downtown next month and many say they're actually thrilled about it.
This week, the city council unanimously approved starting a two-block streetscape project on West Jackson Street a main corridor into the Rose City.
"I'm so excited. We're going to have a great area greeting people as they come into downtown. It's going to impact all the businesses down there that we've really invested in," said Cadence Kidwell, West Jackson St. Business owner.
Cadence Kidwell is all smiles as she talks about how Thomasville's streetscape project will give this part of downtown new life.
"Right now the sidewalks are a little janky and you kind of fall, so it's going to make all that experience, of walking around and enjoying our downtown even better," said Kidwell.
The plan includes safety upgrades for pedestrians, slowing down traffic and filling empty storefronts.
Starting May 1, construction will break ground right here on West Jackson street. New sidewalks, a raised pedestrian intersection and better street lighting are only a few things those who live in Thomasville have to look forward to.
Improvements will go from Madison Street to the railroad crossing at Remington Avenue.
Both city leaders and residents say capturing the area's history is a big part of the project.
"Really importantly it's going to honor the history that's happened down there," said Kidwell.
April Norton / Director, Thomasville Main Street & Business Development
"One part of the streetscape is a commemorative wall and then also history plaques throughout your walk that identify the businesses that were previously there," said April Norton, Director, Thomasville Main Street & Business Development.
City Council approved a 1.7 million dollar bid on the project submitted by CCH Construction of Thomasville.
City planners say the streetscape project will be complete by November 2020.
We'll update you as road closures begin in May because of this project.
