Supply chain issues have caused a delay in a beautification project designed to attract more people to downtown Youngstown and directly connect concert-goers at the amphitheater to downtown bars and restaurants.

When finalized the project along Phelps Street will provide a walkway between the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheater and West Commerce Street.

Director of Public Works Chuck Shasho has said the goal was to finalize the project by early December, but light poles have not yet been delivered. Shasho also says planters along the street can not be installed until Spring. He says both the planters and lights will help users navigate the area.

There is no estimated time frame on when the lights will be delivered. Shasho says the delay is due to supply chain issues.

Shasho says the city is discussing when the street can reopen but they do not want to open the roadway without adequate lighting. 

Last year, the city unveiled the completion of The Phelps Street Gateway. This portion of the project runs along North Phelps Street between West Federal Street and West Commerce Street. The area is closed to vehicle traffic - with lights, restaurants, and bars, it serves as a destination spot in the city.

This latest portion of the Phelps Street project will remain open to vehicle traffic, but its beautification and improvements will help serve as a direct route between activity hubs in the downtown.