It is highly anticipated and happens in mere weeks.
IT is the opening of the extension of Beverle Rivera Drive into Huff N Puff Road, bypassing a slew of businesses and a view of traffic on I-40. AND the westbound ramp left turn lane on I-40 becomes operational.
During the week of Aug. 14, traffic will be flowing to the new part of Beverle Rivera Drive, according to Emily Harrell, Lakeland city engineer. She shared the news with the Board of Commissioners (BOC) during their work session tonight (8.3.17).
“Phase one and two include asphalt down and traffic on the road the week of Aug. 14,” said Mrs. Harrell. “This is a huge game changer for that project.” She said phases three through five will proceed at the same time, with completion by the end of October.
“Next week the westbound ramp turning south should be open,” said Mrs. Harrell of the I-40 work. “In two weeks, TDOT will raise the lower section of the bridge over the interstate. That area should be finished and open in two weeks.” She said traffic will be shifted but should not be closed to vehicles.
She noted the project will finally be complete the end of September. “They want to finish our project since they have another one starting the end of September.” She said MLGW moving water lines held up the project a month and a half.
During at least the first week of school (Aug. 7) and maybe longer, deputies from the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office will direct traffic at Beverle Rivera Drive and Canada Road. This will be during morning and afternoon school rush hours.
Chain link fencing, for control access, was being installed today by TDOT to separate I-40 and the property along Huff N Puff to Canada Road. Mrs. Harrell said there will be an ornamental iron fence on Canada Road instead of the chain-link fencing.
… Photos by Jim Willis, Lakeland Currents.
