Downtown Harrisonburg is looking towards the future, as a new street scape project gets underway.

Phase one of the Downtown Harrisonburg's Streetscape Project will begin on the east side of Elizabeth Street and extend to the library on Main Street.

The project includes the installation of new light poles, benches, and brick sidewalks, as well new trees and shrubbery.

Downtown Renaissance Eddie Bumbaugh says businesses will be notified of construction.

He says, "Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance put together a merchant kit to benefit merchants who may have questions of their own or questions from the public. In terms of exactly when the construction will be occurring in front of their shop. How impact on merchants will be minimized."

Construction on this part starts next week and will be completed on the east side by November. The estimated cost is $500,000.