Replacement of pipes below ground and a refreshed presentation above it are on track to be completed this month, well ahead of schedule.
The block will be the second of four in the city’s main shopping street to be completed, within a broader multimillion-dollar upgrade of the retail area.
A newsletter from the Dunedin City Council said two-way traffic should return to Knox Row by mid-July, two months ahead of schedule.
The overall project is expected to be finished in April next year, brought forward from September, and within budget.
Rob Roy Dairy owner Liz Watson said the work had been disruptive, but adjusting to it was manageable for her business at the intersection of George and Albany Sts.
"It will be really nice not to see orange cones and fences," she said.
"It’s going to look really good."
Staff from the lead contractor Isaac Construction had been helpful, Ms Watson said.
"They buy heaps of pies," she said.
AJ’s Shoe Repairs owner Andrew Farmer said it had been a tough period for businesses, following the Covid-19 pandemic’s impact.
Parking in the area had remained an issue, as it seemed to be regarded as an afterthought, he said.
"I think it will look attractive, open and inviting," Mr Farmer said.
Mr Farmer said a short parking time limit would be best outside his shop and neighbouring premises.
"Access to a business is like blood," he said.
"Cut off the blood and the business will die."
St Vincent de Paul charity shop van driver Pauline Campbell agreed with Mr Farmer’s call for short parking time limits.
Unichem Knox Pharmacy owner Nicola Wild expected the reopening would open up opportunities for the block.
"It’s been hard work getting here, but it’s nearly finished," she said.
"It will look amazing when it’s done."
Up to 90% of the overall project could be completed before the end of this year.
The estimated project completion cost was last month revised down by about $7 million to $87.8 million and a $10 million contingency.
The malls block of George St is expected to be finished in November.
After Christmas, the focus will be on completing the New Edinburgh Way section and on further work in Filleul St.
