MILTON, Del.-Â One of the most used bridges on Route 1 will be replaced.
Drivers will see delays for awhile. DelDOT says the project which is costing more than $11 million is critical. Community Relations Director CR McLeod says there is a plan to do this safely but efficiently.
"We're going to close the southbound direction bridge and then we are going to shift the direction of one lane of southbound traffic over on to one of the northbound lanes," McLeod said. "We'll have a barrier to keep the lanes separated so that we can maintain a one lane of northbound and one lane of southbound traffic over the bridge while repairing the other bridge."
This new traffic flow could cause congestion and with October around the corner, the Sea Witch Festival comes to mind. The return of the parade and other Halloween events will have people coming in through Route 1.
Frank Billborough of Lincoln says improving any major roadway is important.
"I think it's going to be an improvement," Billborough said. "Like I said, I haven't been down here that long but its gotta be better."
With the construction going on, it may be difficult for emergency vehicles to respond to calls. Milton Fire Chief Johnny Hopkins says his department will be alerted about the work when it gets closer and adjust any routes accordingly.
"Anytime you impede traffic flow on a major artery, it's going to slow emergency response," Hopkins said. "Our first and primary focus is to make sure we handle the emergency but we have to get there safely and not put motorists or any construction workers at risk."
The construction starts Monday and will last through Spring of 2022. A long-term project that will benefit travelers for years to come.
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