Starting Wednesday September 19, the 5^th Street and Fitzgerald Avenue intersection will be closed for up to three weeks, depending on weather. The closure is necessary to safely install new sidewalks, narrow crosswalk crossings, and replace the asphalt for the 5th Street Complete Street project.

Businesses remain open and the contractor will ensure clear pedestrian access to all businesses on 5^th Street during this phase of street improvements. The 400-block of 5th Street between England and Fitzgerald Avenues will be open to vehicle traffic, with a turnaround area.

Motorists are asked to obey detour signs and traffic personnel, and take alternate routes during this period to avoid delays. The entire street will reopen to all modes of traffic in October. 

Updates on the closure will be provided through the City’s website, social media, and the subscriber-based e-newsletter. Residents and businesses can sign up to receive updates in their email inbox. Subscribe at: www.courtenay.ca/completestreet

Since May, crews have upgraded the water, stormwater and sewer system in the area, upgraded sidewalks, introduced tactile strips for the visually-impaired, and have added new curbing to make way for rain gardens and protected bike lanes to be introduced in the coming weeks. 

Once complete in October, 5^Th Street will include:

• Two freshly paved vehicle lanes 
• Bike lanes physically separated from vehicle traffic
• Improved accessibility for strollers, scooters, and wheelchairs
• Parking between Fitzgerald and Harmston, and alternating parking and rain gardens throughout the remainder of the corridor
• And, innovative stormwater management to improve drainage