Construction moves on to Marthas

NASHUA Springtime fears that the citys ongoing sidewalk project would shut down outdoor seating at a landmark downtown restaurant has given way to the sight of summer diners sitting alongside orange work cones and heavy equipment.

Once vocal critics of the citys sidewalk plans, Marthas Exchange owners Chris and Bill Fokas, had little to say about the construction going on outside their restaurant this week. ... Subscribe or log in to read more

NASHUA Springtime fears that the citys ongoing sidewalk project would shut down outdoor seating at a landmark downtown restaurant has given way to the sight of summer diners sitting alongside orange work cones and heavy equipment.

Once vocal critics of the citys sidewalk plans, Marthas Exchange owners Chris and Bill Fokas, had little to say about the construction going on outside their restaurant this week.

The signature wrought-iron tables were out on the sidewalk, where people could sit, eat and relax. A few feet away, the citys public works crews had torn up much of the old brick sidewalk and laid fresh blacktop. But closest to Marthas the old brick remained.

Further down Main Street, the citys new signature design of concrete and brick is being laid.

Mayor Donnalee Lozeau said shes worked with all Main Street businesses regarding the city sidewalk project, but has not altered the projects construction schedule to accommodate any specific request.

Yet the Fokas brothers had appealed to the mayor and the Board of Public Works in April to change when the sidewalk construction reaches their doorstep. They were hoping to reduce the constructions impact on summer business. Marthas customers and employees had also joined the owners to advocate for a schedule change.

Although Lozeau didnt skip over Marthas based on the appeal, they reached a compromise.

We didnt accommodate everything, we struck a balance, said Lozeau.

Read the original post:
Construction moves on to Marthas