Columbus Street Walkway Project in Princeton nearly set to begin construction

In two weeks, the City Council will approve a plan for the newly-designed Columbus Street Walkway, with construction beginning as early as May.

City Manager Theresa Wittenauer said the project, led by the Princeton Arts Commission, has been condensed from four phases to two, with the changes bringing a larger upfront cost, but saving time and money on the project in the long run.

Should the council approve the resolution, construction is slated for the beginning of May. The project will begin with new asphalt and electrical on the street and will also include arches repurposing bricks from Euclid Avenue on the east and west side entrances, benches, a performance area and more.

A mural on the south wall of Spoons is expected to complete the project and will likely be historically designed, depicting the roots of the building and South Main Street.

“It’s important to keep on budget,” said Mayor Joel Quiram. “(Wittenauer) has done well budgeting for this project.”

For this project, the city wanted to leave some specifics open-ended and asks Princeton residents for their input.

Wittenauer said any resident with thoughts, ideas or opinions on the project should contact the city before the next meeting Monday, April 18. The project thus far has been funded by a private donation.