Diners in the Galt core may soon have another revamped space to enjoy a meal.
The tunnel running alongside the currently vacant storefront at 15 Main St. is set for revitalization.
"The vision for the tunnel redesign was sparked by Terry Polyak, a dedicated local business owner, Cambridge resident and developer deeply invested in our core area," Brian Kennedy, executive director of the Downtown Cambridge BIA, said.
"With the addition of 13 residences accessing the tunnel midway, Terry saw an opportunity to address safety concerns while creating something truly special."
Kennedy said the storefront is currently up for lease and is being envisioned for a local restaurant. Should a restaurant take over the space, the tunnel would serve as overflow seating, accommodating up to 24 seats during shoulder seasons and inclement weather.
It wouldn't be the first restaurant Polyak helped bring to Galt as he also oversaw the development of The Mule at 60 Main St.
As for the tunnel itself, new paving stones, iron gates, a rebuilt granite arch and string lights are a few of the features residents can expect.
The space will be closed to the public as a way to get from Main Street to the parking lot that sits between Ainslie Street and Water Street but could be opened up for public events such as Grand River Pride and Phil Klein's Unsilent Night.
"The tunnel, a highly recognizable characteristic of Main Street, has been underutilized in recent years," Kennedy said.
"This new tunnel design is just one step in our collective efforts to enrich the local community and propel Downtown Cambridge forward."
With several local shops, restaurants and the recently created Galtway alley, Kennedy is proud of the work that's been done to make the core a destination for leisure.
Its a development area the BIA wants to continue to build on going forward.
"Just like the city as a whole, downtown is evolving as we welcome new community members to our vibrant area," he said.
"Their interests, desires and behaviours are ever-changing. It's essential for us to consistently monitor what people love about our downtown, what initially drew them here and what is currently missing or desired, and make every effort to fill those gaps."
Polyak was unavailable for comment at the time of publication.
