The first phase of regeneration work on Douglas promenade will start next month, if Tynwald backs the scheme.
The Department of Infrastructure will ask the court for the £1.6 million required at next week's sitting.
The project is set to cover the stretch from the Sea Terminal to just past the Jubilee Clock.
The department says the road surface on the stretch is failing, as is the surface drainage.
It's claimed the shabby and tired state of the area is holding back commerce.
There are also issues with safety.
The scheme is scheduled to last 37 weeks, and is due to be completed by mid-May next year.
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