Construction will soon begin on a downtown improvement project in the city of Niles.
Starting Tuesday, the portion of Second Street between Main Street and the alley to the north will be closed for the new downtown public outdoor space, The Forge.
During the pandemic, the city and its DDA Main Street program requested that area become a designated outdoor dining zone. After several months of discussions and public input, the DDA has decided to keep the area as on outdoor entertainment location where people can drink, eat, and socialize.
During construction, the site is expected to be fenced off, but the sidewalks will be open to allow access to businesses.
The project is estimated to cost between $650,000 and $807,0000. It’s expected to be complete by mid-November, barring weather and unforeseen circumstances.
