There are certain processes and methods that can be expected for an alley reconstruction project. As a resident, what should you expect? The city explains a typical reconstruction process, service impacts, restoration activities, what the end of construction looks like and more.
Alleys under construction will be closed to traffic for approximately five weeks to allow the contractor to grade the alley, pour the concrete and perform restoration work. After the concrete is poured, it must harden for seven days before it is strong enough for vehicular traffic. During the construction period, residents will not have access to the alley—please park all vehicles in the street. The police department is aware of the project and the temporary on-street parking needs of the residents.
Items to be aware of during construction:
- Avoid parking near the construction area, especially at the end of the alley, during the times when workers are present.
- Observe posted warning signs.
- Do not drive vehicles or bikes in the alley until it has been opened to traffic.
- Traffic cones or construction tape will be installed when the concrete is poured and removed once it is open to traffic.
- Please note that existing bituminous driveways will have a temporary gravel connection to the new alley until all alleys in the project are complete. At that time, the gravel will be replaced with bituminous.
Concentration of heavy equipment, noise and dust will occur during construction. Although the contractor will try to minimize noise and dust, please realize that these are typical of any construction project. We recognize that construction activities can be an inconvenience, and we appreciate your patience while the project is being completed.
Weather
Be aware that construction is highly weather dependent; rain can cause delays. Keep up to date on the schedule by signing up for email updates.
Private improvements in the right of way
The contractor will be working in the public right of way with few exceptions. Please remove all shrubs, flowers, paving stones and sprinkler systems adjacent to the alley as soon as possible. Private improvements that are not removed may be damaged during construction. Property owners are responsible for repair or replacement of damaged items. If you have questions or concerns, contact Mark Elgaard.
Access
If you have special access needs, contact Mark Elgaard. In most instances, we are able to meet your particular needs.
Garbage/recycling/organics
City staff and the contractor will work closely with the various providers that service your neighborhood. While the alleys are under construction, we ask that you please have your garbage, recycling and organics set out on the curb at the front of your house. During the time the alleys are closed, solid waste providers will arrange their pickups on the street. If you need assistance getting these materials to the street, contact Mark Elgaard.
Emergency services
Engineering staff is in direct contact with police, fire and ambulance services and will be communicating construction schedules to them for the duration of the project.
Utility flags
To protect against underground utility damage, the contractor will be calling in utility locates. This is required for anyone digging a hole, whether it is to plant a tree or rebuild a street. The city and private utility companies, such as telephone, gas and electric companies, will locate their underground utilities by spray painting and placing flags in the boulevard. Please do not remove these flags.
Survey markers
In order to perform the project construction, engineers place a series of survey markers (wooden stakes) for the contractor to measure from. Typically, these markers are offset several feet from the object or point they refer to so that they are not disturbed during the construction process. Please do not pull or move these stakes.
Safety
Your assistance in maintaining a safe working environment is important. The noise and activity during construction can make it difficult for workers to watch for onlookers. Heavy equipment operators must concentrate on the job at hand and may not notice activity near or behind their equipment. Please keep a safe distance and use caution while traveling through the construction area. Be alert for moving equipment, holes, trenches and other hazards in the work zone.
Remember — if you can't see them, they can't see you.