Work began last week on Monona’s Center Street Improvement Project. The project area stretches from the North Main and East Center Street intersection to the intersection of South Egbert and East Center streets. Bacon Concrete from Postville is completing the work at a cost of $570,756.45.

The project will improve utilities and the street and sidewalk in the area, as well as accessibility and drainage around city hall.

The city of Monona noted sidewalks in the project area will be closed at times, and the community center gravel parking lot will have limited to no parking.

Center Street Bar N’ Grill and TJ’s Pizza will remain open through construction. Center Street Bar N’ Grill has parking and an entrance in the back and TJ’s Pizza has parking in the back and in the gravel lot across Egbert Street. At least one of the front entrances will always be available.

“It’s going to be an interesting project because it also affects city hall’s front door and drop box. That’s going to be torn up,” said city administrator Barb Collins.

City staff noted last week that they will be notifying anyone who has rented the community center of the project and how to best access the building and parking. The public can reach out to city hall at 563-539-2355 with any questions. Also watch the city’s Facebook page for updates.

According to Collins, Oct. 9 is the final day the project must be completed.

“If everything goes smoothly, [the contractor] feels they will be done before that,” she said.