Construction to begin for new Rockwood plaza
Development containing a grocery store has been in the works for years
ROCKWOOD – Construction is set to begin on the highly anticipated Rockwood plaza, as the planning phase of the development comes to an end.
Alma Inc., the developer behind the proposed retail plaza located at 204 to 250 Alma Street (Highway 7) in Rockwood, provided an update in a news release.
“As many residents of Rockwood are aware, this development has been in planning for close to a decade,” states the May 12 release.
“Over that time, the project has undergone extensive technical, planning and infrastructure review processes.
"We are now pleased to announce that the project is preparing to transition from the planning phase into initial construction activities.”
The first tenants of the plaza – one of which is expected to be a grocery retailer – are expected next year.
“This is very good news for us because not only does it provide convenience for people in Rockwood and around, if you come shop at the grocery store, you might stay in town and hit the hardware store and the other places,” said Mayor Chris White.
As part of the development, improvements will be made to Alma Street, including the addition of a left-turn lane to improve traffic flow and site access.
Utilities are being relocated with Bell service relocation largely completed, according to the release, and Hydro One/Alectra relocation work expected to take place between May 25 and June 15. Enbridge relocation is to be completed between June 15 to July 15.
“Once these relocations are completed, the major prerequisites for the highway widening works will have been satisfied,” states the release.
“Alma Inc. is currently working with the Ontario Ministry of Transportation to finalize permitting and construction scheduling related to the roadway improvements.”
The initial tenants are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
