The Town of Qualicum Beach is applying the finishing touches on Phase One of its East Village Revitalization project, just in time for spring.
The focus of the initial phase of the project was on Berwick Road, bringing in essential utility upgrades and undergrounding of services, as well as beautifying the area through paving, curbs, lighting and tree plantings. The east side of Berwick Street, which features Fern and Cedar Brew Pub, has now been completed and the west side is moving along swiftly, set to finish up in the next few weeks.
The town received funding for this phase of the project from Island Coastal Economic Trust in the sum of $250,000, and $444,525 from the Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure Program.
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East Village is being transformed into a distinctly upbeat and modern neighbourhood that will include inviting public space, as well as approximately 30 mixed commercial/residential units.
The second phase of the project will focus on similar beautification along Second Avenue, from Berwick Road to Fir Street near the Clock Tower Square. The goal is to create a pedestrian and cyclist-friendly streetscape that, along with retail development, would function as a community gathering place.
The cost will be $1,345,000, to be financed through a long-term loan to be paid for by business and property owners in the area.
For more on the project and photos of the transformation visit qualicumbeach.com/_eastvillage
— NEWS Staff, submitted