Second phase of downtown light project to start

Phase Two of the downtown traffic signal replacement project will begin on Tuesday, when city crews begin dismantling the traffic signal at First Street and Grand Avenue.

The existing traffic signals poles along Grand Avenue intersections from Pine to Seventh Street will be replaced by black poles that will more closely blend into the historic downtown environment.

The work to remove and replace the traffic signals is expected to take approximately one and a half weeks per intersection and will progress from west to east over the next several weeks. During the time that the signals on Grand are being replaced, the intersections will be operated under temporary four-way stop control. Only one intersection will be down at any time.

The new poles will have shorter mast arms to soften their visual impact, period light fixtures, and new decorative street name signs. Delivery of the decorative street light fixtures that will be mounted on the arms at the top of the signal poles is not expected until mid-October. The existing LED street lights will be re-installed on the poles in the interim but will be replaced later with the decorative fixtures.

This work will require the temporary loss of some on-street parking at the intersections to provide for staging and work areas. The inconvenience to merchants and customers will be kept at the minimum levels required for a safe project, but patience and caution in the immediate area of work will be appreciated.

Questions regarding this project may be directed to Mike Lane, Traffic Engineering Manager, at (580) 767-0327.