The long-awaited closure of Sunset Avenue and its renovation as a pedestrian walkway is set to begin next week.

Construction crews will close the street to vehicular traffic as of Monday, September 22. Signs warning of the impending change will go up mid-week.

“This exciting development, dreamed of by generations of students, is finally coming true,” says Sandra Aversa, vice-president of planning and administration.

The work will proceed in stages, with the first priority the construction of the cul-de-sac at the north end of Chrysler Hall, creating a pick-up and drop-off area. That element is slated for completion by the end of October. Other surface reconstruction will wrap up by the end of the year.

Aversa says the project is designed to minimize disruption.

“The work will be done along sections of the street, none longer than about 60 metres (200 feet), so people won’t have to walk too far around construction sites,” she says.

Sidewalks and all building entrances will remain accessible for the duration, and emergency vehicles will always be able to proceed without delay. Heavy equipment will enter Sunset Avenue from Wyandotte and will be accompanied by a flag person on foot to secure safe passage.

A website outlining the project, including maps, architect’s drawings and construction timelines, is currently in development. Please direct any questions or concerns to https://fluidsurveys.uwindsor.ca/s/sunset-ave/.