SHAWANO, WI (WTAQ) – A construction project in Shawano will impact travel along the main corridor in the city this fall.
The State DOT is beginning the East Green Bay Street or Highway 22 project.
The project includes work on the sidewalks and sidewalk ramps to make it handicap accessible, according to Scott Kroening, Shawano Department of Public Works Director.
Kroening says there is also another phase with the project.
“They are going to be removing the existing blacktop and going over it with new blacktop. The street condition now is not good and we are really excited to have a new riding surface and it should be a few years before we have to go out and start patching potholes again.”
Work will start this week and will continue through the fall season. Kroening says at different times, travel will be slowed up as vehicles attempt to get from one side of the city to the other.
“Lane closures as they are putting the ramps in for the sidewalks and then an actual closure for the street for three weeks in August.”
He says that will likely cause some headaches because many drive along Highway 22 to get from one side of the city to the other. A detour will be put in place for that three week period.
“Other people will find their way around the city that know the city.”
While travel through the city of Shawano may be stressful at times this summer, Kroening says the end result is a better road to travel on for the future.
“We can get hopefully another 20 years of new life out of that pavement. You just have to reacquaint yourself with orange barrels.”
He says people should remember to leave extra time to travel along East Green Bay Street and should remain patient and understanding. He said it is also important to put down any distractions while driving in the construction zone.
