Improvement Project Begins on Center Street Sidewalks

Construction began Monday on a controversial project that business owners had hoped would attract more businesses to downtown Fayetteville.

Crews began working on the south side of the street between College Avenue and the mid-block alley. The work will last approximately six weeks as crews remove the existing deteriorated sidewalk and replace it with a new concrete sidewalk with brick border on both sides of the street. 

Center Street will be open to traffic at all times, according to a news release from the city. 

Street lights will be replaced and trees will also be added as part of the sidewalk improvements, much like the work done on sidewalks between College Avenue and the downtown square.

City officials agreed in August to build extended sidewalk space for businesses along Center Street. Restaurant owners believed more outdoor seating would help their businesses.

While in its final stages of approval, Fayetteville city attorney Kit Williams raised concerns over using public money to benefit private businesses, and the project was halted.

The city will now build standard-width sidewalks to replace the dilapidated sidewalks that line Center Street.

Crews will work from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. However some construction during the overnight hours and weekends is expected.

Normal parking will be allowed on Center Street and the surrounding area with the exception of the work zone, according to the city.