Spfld North End getting a new look

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Springfield's North End is getting a new look. A more than $3 million dollar construction project is underway.

Phase one of the project starts at the Arch near the Bus station and runs to Osgood Street.

The work includes new sidewalks, wheelchair ramps, trees, street furniture, trash cans and minor traffic signal work.

The state is paying $3 million; Springfield is chipping in more than $100,000 to install decorative lighting.

The North End is how a lot of people from West Springfield and Chicopee get into Springfield. State representative Cheryl Coakley Rivera told 22News the hope is that this project will give a nice jolt to businesses along Main Street. “This is not just about streets and concrete, it's clearly about economic development and enabling our businesses to flourish along the Main Street corridor,” said Coakley Rivera.

Heriberto Flores of Springfield said, “Sidewalks, and infrastructure is not sexy, it's not buildings but you need it. “

Representative Coakley-Rivera told 22News the project also includes installing a traffic light at the intersection of Main Street and Wason Ave.

Phase one of the project is expected to finish next summer. Phase two calls for construction along Main Street up to the Chicopee city line.