Fairhaven’s Ferry Street Sidewalk Expansion Project Underway

Fairhaven’s Ferry Street is getting a major upgrade, and local restaurants are getting ready to reap the benefits.

Thanks to a sidewalk expansion project led by Fairhaven Highway Department Superintendent Joshua Crabb, eateries like Mae’s Breakfast, Olivia’s and The Ice Cream Cottage will soon have the space for outdoor seating.

According to Crabb, the project has been in the works for about two years, with discussions and funding lined up well in advance.

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Work officially began last week, and if all goes according to plan, the final placement of concrete should be completed by Wednesday, with full restoration expected by the weekend.

“The idea initially came from a request that one of our Board of Public Works members received from residents or business owners,” Crabb said. “At first, we considered a parklet-style setup, similar to what was done during COVID, but after running some numbers and working with our contractor, we made the decision to go with a permanent sidewalk extension.”

Fairhaven Sidewalk Project Has Multiple Benefits

The project not only benefits local businesses but also improves pedestrian safety.

With Ferry Street being a one-way road and seeing heavy foot traffic, the expansion ensures that visitors no longer spill into the street. The location’s proximity to the Phoenix Rail Trail and ample street parking also make it an ideal spot for locals and visitors.

The Right People for the Job

LAL Construction Co. out of Fall River was chosen to complete the work to ensure the sidewalk expansion is both durable and well-executed.

Crabb, who has been with Fairhaven’s Highway Department for nearly three years, brings 15 years of engineering experience to the table. Given his background in highway design and large-scale infrastructure projects, he considers this one of the simpler tasks he’s taken on.

“Sidewalk work is easy compared to what I’ve done before,” Crabb said. “I’ve worked on interstate reconfigurations and heavy geometry projects, so this was a great, straightforward improvement that will have a real impact on the community.”

With the project nearing completion, local restaurants are preparing to take full advantage of their new outdoor space, just in time for the warmer weather.