NORFOLK,  Neb. -- Officials are providing updates on a pair of construction projects in Norfolk.

According to Norfolk Communications Manager Nick Stevenson, work will begin on the Johnson Park instream improvements next week. The subcontractor, North Construction, will start construction downstream of the 1st Street Bridge Monday, July 18.

Nearly half of one mile of the North Fork of the Elkhorn River adjacent to Johnson Park will be transformed into an interactive whitewater park. During this process the water flow will be shut off, Stevenson said. He said the changes will strengthen the region's relationship to the river long-term. 

The trail system will also close Monday morning near the Hy-Vee site. It will be closed from Johnson Park all the way south to where it ends at Pine Street and Philip Avenue. 

Also next week, the public is invited to a Benjamin Avenue Improvement Project update on Tuesday at the Norfolk City Council Chambers (309 North 5th Street) from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m.

Representatives from BX-Civil & Construction and the City will be on hand to share current progress and answer questions.

Attendees are asked to park on the west side of the Administration Building and enter through the northwest door.

Anyone with questions or concerns about either project is asked to call the City of Norfolk Engineering Division at 402-844-2020.