Currently, Directional Services Incorporated is working to install conduit in preparation for the burial of the overhead utilities on the north side of West Broad Street, according to Madden. The town is also planning to install decorative street lighting that will complement the lighting in the Phase I revitalization.
“It’s a different fixture, however, we have incorporated the smaller decorative lighting in certain locations to tie together the first phase and to accent the downtown,” said Madden.
He added that the town also has plans to plant 18 Live Oak trees in the Phase II revitalization area as well. The trees will be planted in the fall of the year once the rest of the project is completed.
“We’ve had a good response from the residents for the live oak project,” said Madden.
He said the town will plant the trees well back from the sidewalk and town staff have had to obtain permission from residents to plant the trees on their property. Madden said the trees set back far enough from the sidewalk so the root systems will not undermine the sidewalks.
Madden said that many residents through the years have commented how they missed the overhead canopy that once covered West Broad Street.
“We are trying to bring back the tree lined corridor everyone remembers,” said Madden of the Live Oak project. “Having all of the overhead lines buried will make an impact.”