During Monday night’s Committee of the Whole meeting, Director of Public Works and Utilities Troy Dunlop explained the high volume of work being done on Beckwith Street. Tomlinson was on hand removing some concrete from the sewer on Russell Street and Beckwith. As well as this upkeep, final touches were being made to the Beckwith Street revitalization project: new street name signs were placed; and crosswalk and bike lane markings were finished.

Councillor Dwyer congratulated Director Dunlop on the beauty of the finished street, noting “it will be wonderful to see it in the spring with all the banners and greenery in bloom.” She inquired about public education on the proper use of bike lanes and how to deal with them as drivers and pedestrians. She pointed out that producing new resources isn’t necessary, but perhaps sharing what other cities have produced could have value in Smiths Falls. “Maybe there’s something we could put on social media to educate us, as this is foreign territory to us.” Director Dunlop agreed that getting education out is a great idea, and will be finding resources to share with the public soon. 

New waste receptacles and public benches will be installed on Beckwith Street overnight, so keep your eyes open for fresh changes on Tuesday morning

Article by Janelle Labelle