Clovis initiates Main Street renovations with historic lighting and improved parking

The Clovis Public Works Committee convened on February 26, 2025, to discuss several key infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing the city's public spaces and transportation systems. The meeting highlighted progress on the Main Street project, storm drain improvements, and upgrades to Goodwin Trails, among other initiatives.

The committee reported that the Main Street project is currently at 60% design completion. This project will improve the area from Seventh Street to First Street, focusing on replacing existing street lighting with historic-style fixtures and adding pedestrian lighting. The design includes the installation of bulb outs at intersections, enhanced landscaping, and a reconfiguration of parking from angled to parallel along the sidewalks. Additionally, audio speakers will be installed on streetlight poles to create a vibrant shopping atmosphere. Construction funds are secured, and the project is expected to go out to bid by late spring or early summer.

Next on the agenda was the Purdue and Echols storm drain project, which aims to extend the storm drain system from Dennis Chavez Park to Echo Street. The committee plans to begin construction after the school year ends to minimize traffic disruption. The project will involve deep excavation to accommodate the storm drain system, with an anticipated completion before the start of the next school year.

The committee also discussed the Goodwin Trails project, which will replace the existing asphalt trail with a concrete surface to address erosion issues. The project includes drainage improvements, a new parking lot, and playground equipment. A pre-construction meeting is scheduled for next week to finalize timelines.

In addition, the committee provided an update on a federal grant received for improvements at the North Street and Martin Luther King intersections with BNSF's railway lines. The grant will fund preliminary engineering and environmental studies aimed at establishing a quiet zone, which would reduce train horn noise for nearby residents. The project includes potential at-grade improvements at North Street and an overpass at Martin Luther King. The total funding for this initiative includes $1.2 million from the grant, $500,000 from BNSF, and a $90,000 contribution from the city.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to keep the community informed about the progress of these projects, which are expected to significantly enhance the quality of life in Clovis.