Southern from Lakeshore to Seaway Project

The pavement on Southern Ave has reached the end of its life. The entire street from sidewalk to sidewalk will be dug up and replaced. The project includes replacing water service lines all the way to the meter.

Type: Complete reconstruction including some new storm sewers, water service lines replaced to the meter, new road, new sidewalks, and new driveways.
Contractor: Terra Contractors
City Neighborhood(s): Nims

Project Summary: The pavement in Southern has reached the end of its life. In order to replace it, the entire street from sidewalk to sidewalk will need to be dug up and replaced. The project includes replacing your water service line all the way to the meter, so the contractor will need to enter your basement (or the area where your water service enters your home). You’ll need to allow extra time to get to and from your home this spring and summer, and at times you will need to park on a street that may be a block or two away from your home. Your water will need to be shut off for short periods of time and you will always have notice of when this will happen.

Changes to Expect: The road will look very similar to how it looks today, but everything on the surface and many things underground will be new. Many trees will need to be removed, but they will be replaced in the year following the project.

Timeline/Timeframe: The contractor has until October 15, 2025 or 120 days from start of construction to be completely finished with the project. The project could start as early as March or finish as late as November. Once the contractor has identified a start date, information will be sent to the residents along the project.

Lane, Road or Intersection Shutdown: Southern may be closed for the whole project, only residents will be allowed to enter the construction zone. Side streets may also be closed for most of the project. Lakeshore and Seaway will remain open but they could be congested.

FAQS

• How will my trash get picked up? The contractor will work with the City and Republic Waste to make sure your trash is picked up. If your trash can needs to be moved, the Contractor will be responsible for moving it and returning it. It is advised to write your address on your can.
• Why do all the trees in the streets need to be removed? The sewers and water mains that are being replaced are far underground, in some cases as deep as 12 feet down. In order to safely dig down that far, the trees need to be removed. Replacement trees will be planted the year after the project.
• Why does the contractor need to get inside my house? A small portion of your water service pipe (the pipe that brings water into your home) is made of lead. The City is working to replace all water service pipes that have that small piece of lead, and the time has come for your service line to be replaced. The state requires the pipe be replaced all the way to your water meter, which is probably inside your home. The contractor will need to get to your water meter and work in that area as part of the replacement. In the meantime, your water is safe to drink. If you have any questions about this or about lead in your water, reach out to Public Works at 231-724-4100. Online consent to access form.