Construction has begun in Port Chester on a portion of a project that has been dubbed “The Loop” that the village believes will help bring shoppers back to the North Main Street area of the downtown while also helping spur activity along the waterfront.
Jablko Construction based in Katonah was awarded a $4.7 million contract for work on the waterfront segment of what is planned to be a looping walkway that will provide a uniform circular path from the waterfront, through the downtown business district, to the secondary retail area, past the MTA’s train station and Capital Theatre, down to Liberty Square, and back to the waterfront.
In explaining the plan, the village said, “Port Chester was traditionally known for retail sales and shopping every Thursday night in Westchester. Over time, many of these retail businesses have closed. Some moved to other towns, while many more were unable to compete with big box and online retailers, resulting in permanent closures. Our goal isn’t just to bring people back to N. Main Street; there’s ample retail and development opportunity throughout the DRI Catchment area. We need a way to systematically connect these active areas.”
The waterfront phase of the “The Loop” pathway includes paving the entire stretch of about 1,600 linear feet with decorative stamped concrete, addressing minor drainage issues, installing lighting, adding seating areas, and enhancing the space with landscaping. There also would be stage for outdoor performances.
Port Chester had received seven bids from companies interested in handling the construction, with the highest bid at $6.8 million. Jablko was the low bidder.
