A major reconstruction of north avenue has received final approval from washington.The $1.2 million grant will improve a 5 block section of the street.

The city of Grand Junction applied for the grant last January. It was awarded to it on Monday and will be used to make some much needed improvements to North Avenue.   

The city says it will focus on improving the street, side walks and lighting in the area. The changes will be made to the 5 blocks between 12th and 23rd on both sides of the street.
     

City Managers say this money will help businesses along the corridor and the community.

[CG :Lower 3rd\Kathy Portner\City Of GJ Public Works Department]
"It will make it a much safer corridor. The other element that it will also introduce is the opportunity for some bus pull outs," Kathy Portner with the public works department said. "North Avenue is out busiest corridor for Grand Valley Transit."

C-DOT awarded the grant to the city of GJ. Officials say they're hoping to have the upgrades complete in the next 18 months.
     

They say this will promote economic development in the areas once the construction is complete.

The city says they want to get business owners involved in the upgrades. It will put together regular meetings for them to participate in and voice their opinions and concerns.