Start of downtown Vernon plaza delayed

The closure of one block in downtown Vernon for a street plaza this summer is now expected to start a week later than originally planned.

Vernon city staff said the Downtown Vernon Association (DVA) has asked the city to defer closing the 2900 block of 30th Avenue near the Towne Theatre, from the week of June 27, to after the Canada Day long weekend, on July 4.

The city’s community infrastructure and development department said delaying the start until after that weekend will allow the street closure to coincide with the start of the DVA’s plaza ambassador staff and scheduled programming.

“Further, by deferring the closure until after the long weekend, area businesses and their customers will benefit from additional on-street parking capacity. This request has been reviewed and supported by the general manager, public works and manager of economic development and tourism,” said the department’s update to city council.