Houlton completes $1.3M downtown sidewalk improvement project

The town of Houlton has completed a $1.27 million downtown sidewalk improvement project. Funded by the Maine Department of Transportation, the initiative aimed to replace crumbling concrete walkways that had not been updated in over 30 years.

The new asphalt-based sidewalks were designed to meet Americans with Disabilities Act standards, improving accessibility for pedestrians, particularly those using wheelchairs. The project included the reconstruction of pedestrian crossings and sidewalks on Market Square, Main Street, Water Street, and Broadway.

Construction involved installing bituminous pavement, new granite curbs, lighting, and storm drains. The choice of asphalt over concrete was intended to better withstand northern Maine’s freeze-thaw cycles and harsh winters. The project is currently awaiting a final walkthrough by the Department of Transportation.