Duncan’s Craig Street Revitalization project is on budget but completion will be delayed by about a week to Oct. 30, city officials said.

Duncan treasurer Peter deVerteuil noted the setback stems from works crew uncovering derelict coal chutes that must be shored up, plus the adjustment of an old water main under Craig.

“We’ve used a bit of our $100,000 contingency for the coal chutes and realignment of a water main,” he said of the $1.086-million project started July 2.

But the delay, he added, is not connected to issues surrounding the deteriorated wooden foundation of the Red Balloon Toy Shop building.

It’s been vacated and the shop relocated to downtown’s former Ganges Tea Room.

Administrator Tom Ireland noted store and building owner, Susan Faulkner, is working with ICBC and council concerning a claim after the front pillar on her historic building was hit by a city backhoe clearing winter snow.

“Our backhoe got away from a worker and backed into the wooden column but did no structural damage.

“How it happened I don’t know, it’s still with ICBC.”

Faulkner’s insurers have said her store had to relocate so the shaky foundation could be addressed, added Ireland.

Meanwhile, crews are minimizing vibration around the Red Balloon building, at the corner of Craig and Station streets.

“Her engineer’s opinion is rot in the foundation has left the building relying on the sidewalk for support.

“We’re not taking away the sidewalk in front of her building because there needs to be substantial work on it.”

Ireland dismissed reports Craig Street itself sinking but said work on old piping and coal chutes must be done to prevent future problems.

Lance Steward, co-owner of Just Jake’s and the Craig Street brewpub, said the street beautification work — spanning trees and benches to realigned parking spots and more — is affecting his business.

“I don’t like hearing it’s being delayed but I’ve been gearing for Oct. 30 anyway though November would take the wind out of my sails.We have all the usual summer obstacles but it’s been a little dusty and dirty,” Steward said.

“We’re trying to stay positive.”

Agnes Caravati of the Duncan Business Improvement Area Society, explained her merchant members are simply weathering the renovation storm.

“Tenants are putting up with it.

“Visitor numbers are about the same, according to our totem tour guide, and shoppers are getting used to parking outside the core,” she said.

City leaders expect a made-over Craig Street to be open before the Olympic torch passes through Duncan on Oct. 31.