A construction project promises long-term benefits for those using a key Essex County artery.
Phase two of the Manning Road improvement project got underway on Monday. Tecumseh Mayor Gary McNamara said once the work is finished, there will be upgrades in transportation and storm drainage.
"We are very excited to be getting started on the next phase of the improvements to Manning Road," said McNamara. "This project is part of the broader plan for the area to improve transportation infrastructure, support flood mitigation, and remove the drain along the west side of Manning Road."
During this phase of the project, crews will enclose and redirect the East Townline Drain into the recently constructed Lakewood Park channel.
The existing open drain on the west side of Manning Road will also be filled in. Water mains will be replaced along Little River Boulevard from Manning to Grace Road, and along St. Thomas Street from Manning to Green Valley Drive.
A new local storm sewer will also go in on the west side of Manning.
Phase one of the project was completed in 2014. This phase included the construction of a roundabout on Manning and Riverside Drive East. A new storm pump station was also built to provide improved storm drainage.
Phase two is expected to be completed in early 2022.