Essex To Start Redeveloping Silo District

Hello time traveller!!
This article is 3332 days old.
The information listed below is likely outdated and has been preserved for archival purposes.

The Town of Essex has received funding to move two much needed town projects forward, the reconstruction of approximately 1.2 kilometres of Fairview Avenue and the start of redevelopment of the Silo District.

Through the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund, Essex will receive up to $1,597,533 for road reconstruction and water main replacement on this main artery to town recreation facilities, Holy Name Catholic Elementary School, and the Essex County Civic Centre.

“Fairview Avenue is in critical condition and needs reconstruction as soon as the weather permits,” says Chris Nepszy, Director of Infrastructure and Development. “This funding will help us ensure that safe driving conditions are maintained on this key gateway for residential, recreational and institutional users.”

In addition, CN Rail announced funding in the form of a maximum grant of $25,000 for greening the brownfield area near the historic Essex Railway Station, which is currently referred to as the Silo District.

The landscape improvements proposed in the town’s application are part of a larger project to transform the Silo District into an attractive public space and central focal point in the downtown core of Essex Centre.

“We hope to transform the Silo District into a beautiful, functional space that can be used for community and civic events,” says Doug Sweet, Director of Community Services. “The grant funding from CN will help us to create a park-like environment using native trees and plants. In the future, we hope to connect the landscape and connecting pathways with the nearby commercial area.”

Work on both projects is expected to begin this spring.