A major road project impacting Salem is well past the halfway point, said Mayor Justin Green.
However, a few more months of construction remain and Green is asking for motorists’ continued patience during this time.
“I know it is a headache to deal with maneuvering around road and lane closures while construction is underway,” said Green. “However, it’s important that everyone continue doing so for the safety of all involved.”
Green recently negotiated with the Indiana Department of Transportation to open a section of the road from Main and Hackberry Streets up to Shelby Street.
That section of the road will receive a final coat of asphalt when the entire project is completed as well as striping, but with the sections open, it allows local traffic to maneuver more freely.
Signs are up warning that large trucks are not to use this local access.
The $13.2 million Indiana State Department of Transportation reconstruction project is being completed by Milestone Contractors LP. It involves both utility relocations and road reconstruction.
The project began in March 2022 and is expected to be completed in the fall of 2023.
This portion of the project involves utility relocations followed by reconstruction work.
Nearly 1.5 miles of SR 56 is being reconstructed in sections between SR 60 and SR 135.
“This is a major and much-needed project,” said Mayor Green. “I truly appreciate the understanding and cooperation of the local business community and residents while construction continues. This will be a great improvement for our city.”
