Gallo Construction has begun its work to repair façades on 22 buildings left scarred by the removal of the Pike Plan canopies in Uptown Kingston. The canopies that were once everywhere in the stockade district were designed to protect shoppers from rain, but were torn down earlier this year. Mayor Steve Noble cited safety concerns from the rotted wood and metal structures.

The bid for the reconstruction was first put out on July 10-31, and was then reissued on Aug. 25 after not receiving any bids. On Aug. 27, Gallo Construction was awarded the bid.

On Sep. 15, the work began with The Designery at 302 Wall Street. The store, owned by Sarah Kopczynski, offers full-service cabinetry, design and remodeling solutions. While Kopczynski said she did not have many comments, she was “excited to see how things come together.”

After The Designery, Gallo Construction will move to 304, 310, 322 and 326 Wall Street, with each store expecting to take two days and the project completed by the end of October.

“The contractors will maintain storefront and residential access at all times throughout construction, and the work should not impede sidewalks,” Noble said in a statement. “I thank everyone for their patience and hope you will bear with us as we get this project over the finish line. I know we are all ready to replace the black plastic seal on our historic Uptown buildings and see this architecture and the entire Stockade area shine.”