Work will focus on enhancing the Gray St "plaza" adjoining the council’s new public toilets, and will include new curbs, garden beds, paving, footpaths and landscaping, including installation of new lighting furniture and plants.
The South Otago town has been undergoing extensive infrastructure upgrades in preparation for the beautification, beginning in 2023 with water infrastructure replacement and putting power lines underground.
The latest works are the final part of the Milton Main Street Upgrade project, identified by Clutha District Council during community planning in 2018.
Clutha District Mayor Bryan Cadogan said the council had approved a reduced budget of $1.1 million for the plaza upgrade.
Originally, up to $5 million had been earmarked for work at the plaza, and parts of the adjoining Union St (SH1).
Mr Cadogan said he was pleased to see the work begin, which he hoped would help "revitalise" the town.
"This will be the focal point for the town and will transform and modernise Milton’s appearance.
"Improving Milton’s main street was one of the top priorities identified in the Our Place Milton community plan and the council’s long-term plan. The main street is a busy route for motorists on State Highway 1, as well as a major focal point for the community, with many important buildings, shops, and public spaces. This project will replace critical infrastructure and is a big step towards revitalising Union St, making it a more attractive destination."
He said the final cost of $1.1 million acknowledged the importance of the work, while completing it with a reduced scope and budget, given the challenging economic climate.
Local contractor Andrew Haulage began work yesterday, and would aim to complete the project by mid-January.
Council deputy chief executive Jules Witt said residents and visitors should expect some disruption during the work.
"To limit disruption, the work is being completed in stages, to try and minimise the impact to businesses and residents. Traffic will be able to travel in both directions, but there will be safety measures and a 30km speed restriction in place."
