By Stephen Seitz
As sure a sign of spring as robins returning and crocuses blooming, the season also sees road construction crews getting back to work.
In Rutland Town, the traffic signal at the intersection of Green Mountain Plaza, Seward Road and Route 7 is scheduled to be replaced. The project begins in July and is expected to be complete by December. There will also be unspecified improvements to the Rutland Center Street Marketplace during the same period.
In Woodstock, work begins in September to construct a pedestrian island, a new handicapped-accessible sidewalk, crosswalks, and speed control signs on South Street. The project is expected to last until March of next year.
In Ludlow, the Walker Bridge leading into town will be closed completely from May 15 through May 25, with one-way alternating traffic for the next two weeks after that. According to the project description, “The new bridge deck will be constructed on existing beams and existing abutments using new precast deck panels to facilitate rapid replacement. … The useful life of the structure will be extended another 30 to 40 years.”
The bridge at the intersection of Routes 100 and 103 will also be rehabilitated during this period. The plan is to replace the deck using the existing beams and abutments. The new bridge will be an 82-foot single span. Those with questions about either project should call 802-496-3376.
There will also be the usual routine maintenance work on state roadways throughout the region. Travelers can expect to encounter crews putting down new pavement markings and center lines along state roads. According to VTrans, Class 1 and Class 2 roads will be getting new center lines.
June sees the beginning of a two-year project to reconstruct part of U.S. Route 7 in Brandon. About one mile of roadway will be completely replaced, as well as side roads, sidewalks and parking areas. The project also includes relocating utilities, upgrading drainage and new traffic signals.
