By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
WIREGRASS—Motorists traveling across the Wiregrass are being urged to slow down and remain alert as several roadway improvement projects are underway or scheduled to begin in the coming days in Dale, Pike, and Henry counties.
In Dale County, the Level Plains Police Department is asking drivers to use extra caution when traveling through the intersection of U.S. Highway 84 and County Road 1 this week. Crews are working on the traffic signal at the intersection, and motorists should expect temporary delays and changing traffic patterns while the work is completed.
Police are encouraging drivers to reduce their speed, obey all traffic control devices, and follow directions from workers in the construction zone to help protect both road crews and the traveling public.
In neighboring Pike County, the Alabama Department of Transportation has announced that its resurfacing and striping project on State Route 53 (U.S. Highway 231) has been delayed. The project, which includes resurfacing, micro-milling, and new traffic striping along approximately 2.6 miles between State Route 93 and Veterans Boulevard in Brundidge, is now scheduled to begin on Monday, July 13, weather permitting.
The approximately $1.6 million project is expected to continue through the fall.
Meanwhile, in Henry County, motorists traveling through downtown Abbeville should prepare for changes in traffic patterns as work begins around the Henry County Courthouse to remove several traffic signals and convert intersections to stop sign control.
Beginning Monday, July 6, traffic signals at the affected intersections will be placed into flashing mode while crews install new stop signs. Signal removal is scheduled to begin Monday, July 13.
The following traffic pattern changes will take effect:
Washington Street (State Route 10) and Kirkland Street will become an all-way stop.
Williams Street and Kirkland Street will become an all-way stop.
Washington Street (State Route 10) and Doswell Street will be converted to a side street stop. Drivers on Doswell Street will be required to stop before entering or crossing Washington Street, while traffic on Washington Street will continue to have the right-of-way.
Officials said the Abbeville project is weather-dependent and could be delayed if conditions become unfavorable.
Across all three projects, transportation officials are encouraging motorists to expect temporary delays, allow extra travel time when possible, and exercise caution in active work zones. Drivers should remain alert for workers, construction equipment, temporary traffic control devices, and changing traffic patterns to help ensure the safety of everyone.
The Chronicle will keep you updated as we learn more about planned road and bridge projects/construction. Stay informed with the Dale County Chronicle,
