Residents of Almaty have been facing inconveniences for weeks due to repairs on Timiryazev Street. Pedestrians complain about blocked sidewalks, dust, and awkward detours, reports infohub.kz.
As it turned out, a large-scale improvement of Timiryazev Street is currently underway, from Zhandosov to Baitursynov. Sidewalks are being renovated, paving stones are being laid, bike lanes are being built, new lighting is being installed, an automatic watering system is being laid, and greenery is being planted. The work is being carried out on the principle of "from facade to facade."
One of the main questions was why repairs are being done simultaneously on several adjacent sections. The city administration explained that the work is organized in a "checkerboard pattern." While builders work on one side of the street, the opposite side, according to officials, should remain open for pedestrians. After one section is completed, the equipment moves to the next.
"This allows minimizing inconvenience for pedestrians. Construction and installation work is carried out simultaneously only on one side of the street, while the opposite side remains open and accessible for pedestrians. At the work sites, banners are installed with information about the construction work, restrictions on passage (drive), and other necessary warnings aimed at ensuring the safety of citizens," the administration noted.
There was also a question about how people with disabilities, parents with strollers, and other people with limited mobility should move around while the repair is ongoing. The department did not give a direct answer to this question.
Instead, they noted that the previous infrastructure had not met modern accessibility requirements. After the improvement work is completed, they promise to create a barrier-free environment with ramps, convenient access points, and conditions for visually impaired pedestrians and cyclists.
Another frequent complaint is dust. According to the department, the area is regularly watered during the work. They noted that even when cutting curbs, water cooling is used to reduce dust in the air.
"Measures to reduce dust levels during construction and installation work have been taken. The maximum possible moistening of the territory is carried out using water trucks. In hard-to-reach places, when cutting curb stones and curbs, work is carried out with mandatory use of water cooling and watering to minimize dust formation."
Meanwhile, as repairs continue, Almaty residents will apparently have to be patient and choose their routes more carefully. The administration promises that after the work is completed, the street will become more convenient for both pedestrians and cyclists. But whether expectations will match reality will become clear after the renovated Timiryazev Street opens.