Major modernization project in Village of Canisteo takes shape: What's been done?
A Steuben County village which turned 150 years old this year is ready for its closeup with a multi-million dollar downtown makeover nearing completion.
A modernization project in Canisteo has included roadway resurfacing, new sidewalks, the creation of dedicated turning lanes and other improvements designed to enhance safety and boost travel on two critical roads connecting the village to its northern neighbor, the City of Hornell, and the entire Southern Tier Region.
Ultimately, the project should make the village more accessible and friendly to walkers, runners and bicyclists, state and local officials said.
The New York State Department of Transportation funded the project, a complement to “Southern Tier Soaring” — a regional strategy to revitalize communities and spur economic growth.
The major construction contractor is Twin Tier Construction Inc. When work began in March 2022, DOT put the price tag at $8.6 million.
"The project was set to be completed by the fall of 2023 and it is almost complete," said Monica Recktenwald, the Canisteo village mayor. "My information is the final road stripping and signage will take place Aug. 20."
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How Canisteo modernization project has changed face of village
Visitors to the village should notice the following improvements and changes:
Replacement of existing sidewalks and the addition of 1,000 feet of new sidewalk along state Route 36.
New rapid flashing beacons along state Route 36 and Maple Street to improve pedestrian safety.
Modern, acorn-style streetlights in front of businesses along state Route 36.
Installation of dedicated left-turn lanes along state Route 36 to reduce congestion and improve the flow of traffic.
New parking lot, benches, picnic tables and other enhancements to the village’s downtown park.
"TTCI was phenomenal in communicating with the village employees and working with residents and businesses to provide dates of proposed road or sidewalk closures, ensuring any issues were addressed in an expeditious manner and managing their schedules to assist the village in being able to provide their Crazee Daze and Sesquicentennial celebration," Recktenwald said.
"By having the DOT’s office located on Main Street, our residents and business owners had the opportunity to personally discuss concerns with or obtain information directly from DOT staff."
Recktenwald said the project has spurred private sector improvements and renewed pride in the 2,000-plus resident village, which was officially formed in April 1873.
"Many of the businesses have invested in their storefronts and many residents have commented on how proud they feel when driving or walking through the village," Recktenwald said.
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Village of Canisteo will showcase project in September
While DOT has not announced an official completion date, a village celebration is already in the works.
According to Recktenwald, the Canisteo Community Support Group will present a Community Social from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sept. 23.
The day's events will include the burial of a time capsule, while the public will be afforded the opportunity to take in the improvements, enjoy music and visit various businesses, churches and vendors that are planning activities to mark the sesquicentennial and downtown modernization.
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This article originally appeared on The Evening Tribune: Finishing touches left on $8.6 million Canisteo modernization project
