Dane Gibson
Northern News Services

NNSL (Jun 30/99) - A tree here and a lamp-post there -- city officials say Franklin Ave. is going to shine once a $200,000 beautification project is completed.

But Yellowknifers are being asked to be patient while the transformation takes place. During Stage One of the reconstruction, which takes place July 3, Franklin Ave. will be closed to vehicle traffic from 51st street to 49th street for a period of two months. During the second stage immediately following, Franklin will be closed between 49th and 47th streets for two months.

"There will be disruptions and traffic will be affected, but it's the safest and most efficient way to complete the project," Public Works manager Greg Kehoe said.

"We'll try to minimize the disruption on the side streets."

In addition to 30 three-metre tall birch trees being planted, 14 ornamental street lights will be installed and three information kiosks constructed.

The plan, which was approved by city councillors at a June 28 council meeting, also calls for the complete repaving of the roadway and widening of the sidewalks. Fire hydrants and traffic lights will also be replaced.

"The idea is to make the downtown core more attractive and safer for pedestrian traffic. Conceivably, if it's more attractive, people will stay in the downtown core longer," Kehoe said.

Volker Stevin Contracting are handling the nuts and bolts of the operation. Avens Associates landscape architect Karen LeGresley helped design the project.

LeGresley said she's confident the most unpredictable part of the upgrade, adding trees to the strip, shouldn't pose a problem.

"Until they get established, we'll be watering the trees and watching them closely because they will experience severe conditions. But the trees are hearty and we expect them to grow," LeGresley said.

"They are living creatures and I would guess there will be some loss, but they will be planted in good top soil and properly maintained. We expect a good success rate."