Caldart work halted for weather

POULSBO — Forecasts for weekend showers have put a halt to plans that would have added the final touch to the Caldart Avenue reconstruction project.

The addition of three crosswalks, which will take place over two consecutive weekends, was originally projected to begin yesterday. But the onset of the fall rainy season has pushed the potential start date to Sept. 24, weather permitting.

The $1.07 million Caldart Avenue reconstruction project, which widened 1,800 feet of the road, added sidewalks and enhanced stormwater systems, began in mid-June. It was planned to be completed in mid-September. The addition of the new road surface was plagued by rainfall issues, as well, but managed to be completed before the first day of school at North Kitsap High School.

“I wanted to be done with it and happy by now, but I’m not,” Project Engineer Andrzej Kasiniak commented.

The stamped concrete crosswalks, which are included in the project as safety measures, will be created in two phases. Half are to be added over one Friday-Sunday time frame and the other half the next weekend. The work will require Caldart between Lincoln Road and Hostmark Street to be one-way only, with limited turning out of driveways and off of Mesford allowed. Flaggers will be on hand to assist motorists.

Kasiniak said it was disappointing to have the project delayed yet another week. He said motorists have been patient with the work in the area the last three months and he’s hoping they’ll soon have no more delays to endure.

“You’ll see how beautiful they will be,” he said of the future crosswalks. “They’ll be worth the pain and effort we’re going through.”

For more information, contact senior field inspector Mike Lund at (360) 779-5111.

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