by Matt Wright
Lakeland is still a long way from having a four lane “New” Canada Road but technically the first step of the project is now complete. Phase one was focused on natural gas pipelines that had to be relocated before construction could begin on the new road. When the project started back in March of this year Emily Harrell, Lakeland’s City Engineer, told Lakeland Currents that part of the project was necessary dues to bends in the pipe under Canada Road. Now that the project is complete the vertical bends of the pipe are outside the new roadway’s pavement which will allow for road construction.
With the gas line work done, the next major phase of New Canada Road can commence. “With the gas line relocation phase virtually complete, we’re looking forward to beginning construction on New Canada Road in earnest,” said Lakeland City Manager Michael Walker. Mr. Walker told Lakeland Currents the open bid process for construction of the new road will begin this fall. He also said the city is working with USDA Rural Development representatives to ensure everything has been done to secure local matching funds. Those matching funds will play a significant role in the financing of the three year, 25 million dollar project. The city anticipates beginning road construction in 2023.
“This project has been around for a long time, and it’s an exciting time to see it finally coming together,” Mr. Walker said. “We’re hopeful that four years from now we will all be enjoying this new road together!”
