HICKORY — Construction starts Monday, March 30, on a multi-phase downtown streetscape upgrade, the City of Hickory said March 26, 2026.
Work is listed along Government Avenue SW from First Street SW to Third Street SW, and on First Avenue NW between North Center Street and Second Street NW.
The city said the project is funded in part by an $850,000 state grant through North Carolina’s Rural Downtown Economic Development program. Planned work includes wider sidewalks and more visible crosswalks; enhanced outdoor and gathering space; curb bulb-outs to slow traffic and help pedestrians; and infrastructure for lighting that matches existing downtown streetscape features. The city said the upgrades are meant to support business growth, pedestrian safety, and a stronger downtown for residents and visitors.
The first phase is Government Avenue SW. Lane or full closures and temporary loss of on-street parking in the work zone are listed. The city asked for patience, extra travel time, and attention to posted signs so crews can finish shifts safely. Full completion is listed for August.
The March 26 notice does not name the contractor, a nightly work window, or a detour map.
Official release from City of Hickory, March 26, 2026. https://www.hickorync.gov/contractor-set-begin-downtown-streetscape-improvements-next-week
