It’s construction season once again in the city of Oconto Falls, marking the start of the second year of a two-year project. Last year’s utility work on state Highway 22 gave city residents and businesses a taste of what can be expected this year.
For Chamber of Commerce President Gail Yatso, the project is an important part of the beautification effort undertaken by the city and the chamber.
“Six months of construction and headaches is worth decades of beautiful, safe driving and walking,” Yatso said. “It’s needed.”
The 1.6-mile stretch of road from West Highland Drive to East Highland Drive will be under construction in two stages.
Detours are scheduled to take effect Thursday, as construction starts at the intersection of East Highland Drive and Highway 22. The work is scheduled to be completed by May 20.
The detour route will be Highway 22 to South Main Street to County Road I/Fireside Road to Highway 22.
The intersection is part of the first stage of construction, which encompasses the area of East Highland Drive to South Main Street.
The second stage, through Main Street in the downtown, is scheduled to begin in August and end Oct. 31.
According to Matthew Ternes, Department of Transportation project manager, Highway 22 traffic will be detoured throughout the entire project, although businesses and residents on the route will have access open.
“Access is going to be there, but it’s going to be somewhat restricted,” he said.
He encouraged motorists to use avoid using Highway 22 but instead use side streets to get to their destination. He also reminded people to avoid walking in the construction area or tampering with construction equipment.
He said the city and DOT worked together to the plan the project; for instance, by scheduling the project to avoid school areas when regular classes are in session.
The city on April 10 hosted a meeting for businesses and home owners with property on the construction route. Representatives from Peters Concrete Company, the primary contractor for the project, the Wisconsin DOT and engineers from Mead & Hunt explained the project details and schedule.
The $3.95 million DOT project includes pavement removal and replacement, curb and gutter, sidewalks, storm sewer, street lighting, pavement marking and street signing.
In an e-mail to the Times Herald, City Administrator Vicki Roberts said detours signs will be posted, and the city will strive to keep the line of communication open during this project.
“The city is here to help the businesses as best we can,” she said.
The chamber of commerce is also actively assisting businesses. The chamber e-mailed maps of the city and construction stages to its members.
Yatso invited people to visit the chamber’s website, www.ocontofallschamber.com, and click on the construction updates or check the chamber’s Facebook page.
“We’ll share as much as we can in a prompt manner,” she said.
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