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Downtown Concord streetscape nears final installs; several small businesses set to open
Summary
City staff reported streetscape construction nearing completion with final electrical, thermoplastic striping and fiber work still underway; parks bond projects remain on schedule for spring/summer openings, and multiple small businesses announced downtown openings in March and spring events.
City staff gave council a final update on the downtown streetscape project and a separate parks and recreation bond update during the meeting.
Jay, the deputy parks and recreation director, reported progress on bond projects: Dorton Park is slated to open in April with concrete work and repaving complete; Academy Gibson is on schedule for a May opening with a zero‑depth entry and bubblers; Marvin Caldwell Park grading is underway and athletic‑field grading is expected in the next two months; and the Ramser project had its bid package issued on Feb. 6 and staff expected bids back in mid‑ to late March.
On the downtown streetscape, project staff reported completed installs of drilled flag holders, some traffic signs, a drinking fountain near Killarney, stamped crosswalks and brick paver landscaping at Cabarrus Avenue. Remaining work included final electrical wiring, pulling fiber to poles, fiber splicing, final pole commissioning for the IntelliStreet system, and thermoplastic striping that depends on warmer temperatures.
Staff described a 24‑foot diameter “compass” thermoplastic graphic planned for one intersection; the material is thermoplastic surface application that will be heat‑applied and has a limited life expectancy subject to wear and will require future maintenance. The IntelliStreet controls are web‑based and staff will receive training as part of final commissioning.
Staff said parking decks are averaging about 60% occupancy based on the monthly mid‑week, mid‑morning counts, noting daytime usage includes city and county employees. The project team has been coordinating remaining items with Buildings & Grounds and Rotary for clock installation and other furniture.
Paige provided a downtown business update: Cannon Honey Mill (9 Cabarrus Ave. W.) is open (grand opening pending); Restoration Market (on Spring Street) held a ribbon cutting and is a thrift market tied to Present Age Ministries; BK Pilates (26 Union St. S.) is slated to open in March; Mercantile on Market is expected in March; 2 Scoops Creamery targets a March 1 opening; and Chara’s Mexican restaurant also plans a March opening. Staff also previewed upcoming events including Art Walk on Union and a proposed Union Street Walk Party on May 3 and said Explore Cabarrus will bring a hospitality‑industry familiarization tour to Concord.
Council asked technical questions about the thermoplastic material, maintenance lifecycle and where IntelliStreet controls would be housed; staff confirmed the system is web‑based and training will be provided. Staff said the streetscape photo archive and project website will remain available while crews finish punch‑list items.
