Press Release

DATE: March 27, 2008

DESIRED PUBLICATION DATE: Friday, March 28, 2008

SUBJECT: State Route 95 (Oak Ridge Turnpike) from near Westover Drive to State Route 62 (Illinois Avenue)

Beginning the week of March 31, 2008, construction will begin on roadway widening improvements along State Route 95 (Oak Ridge Turnpike) from near Westover Drive to State Route 62 (Illinois Avenue). Initially work will include the installation of construction signs and clearing of the right-of-way area outside of the traffic lanes. Some initial utility work will begin within a few weeks. Tentatively within the next one to two months, the four-lane roadway will be reduced to two traffic lanes (one lane in each direction) for construction of the roadway widening on the north side of the Turnpike. Within the next year, the two traffic lanes will be moved to the opposite side for widening of the Turnpike on the south side. The expected completion date of this 4.2-mile roadway section is July 2010.

This approximate $26 million project requires significant utility and roadway construction and some work will occur at night to complete the project within the required completion time. At times, there will be temporary traffic lane and side street closures. Through Press Releases, the City will make every effort possible to advise motorist of the closures. Motorists should exercise caution during this lengthy construction period within the construction zone.

You may contact the City Engineer @ 425-1807 for additional information on the roadway project.