Motorists can expect changes to traffic patterns in the construction zone on East U.S. 50 (Tipton Street) as Milestone Contractors of Columbus prepares to stop work for the winter.
Beginning Tuesday, eastbound traffic will move back to the eastbound side of the highway which has been closed and under construction since August.
The two cloverleaf ramps to Interstate 65 on the south side of U.S. 50 also will reopen to traffic, according to a news release from the Indiana Department of Transportation.
On Wednesday, westbound traffic from Agrico Lane to Sandy Creek Drive will be split between the existing barrier wall. One lane will travel to the right of the barrier wall in the original outside lane with access to the full shoulder, providing access to businesses on the north side of the road. The second lane will travel to the left of the barrier wall.
From Sandy Creek Drive to U.S. 31, westbound traffic will resume its original pattern.
All ramps to and from I-65 are scheduled to reopen by the end of the day Wednesday. Temporary signals will be removed for the winter. Turn lanes will remain at Myers Street, Starbucks and Walmart Distribution Center, Sandy Creek Drive, Steven’s Way and U.S. 31.
Shifting traffic to this pattern allows INDOT to safely and effectively perform snow and ice removal duties during the winter months.
Motorists are reminded to slow down, use extra caution and drive distraction-free through all work zones. All work is weather dependent and schedules are subject to change.
Work on the $15 million, 1.25 mile pavement reconstruction project started in April and will resume in the spring of 2021.
Intersection improvements at U.S. 31 and bridge painting also are included in the project. A dedicated right turn lane for eastbound traffic turning south onto U.S. 31 is going to be added. Also, the turn lane taking traffic from southbound U.S. 31 to West U.S. 50 will be extended, and a concrete island will be constructed to separate the right turn lane from westbound traffic.
Two travel lanes in each direction are expected to be maintained for the duration of the project.
The bulk of the project will be completed by the end of October 2021 with some work continuing through June 2022.
The features are designed to improve traffic flow and make it safer for vehicles and pedestrians traveling through the busy corridor.