MONROE - City officials took a preemptive step against congested traffic along 10 1/2 Street due to its frequent use by semi trucks by temporarily closing the area to parking during the upcoming 8th Street construction.
The blocks affected are from 4th Avenue West to 400 feet before 1st Avenue, which is roughly located at the back driveway of Pick 'n Save. Businesses like Kevin's Appliance and Mattress Superstore, Alpine Slicing and Cheese and Carquest Auto Parts have supply trucks regularly sitting on the side of the street for deliveries.
Director of Public Works Al Gerber said those trucks will no longer be allowed to sit with flashing lights on in order to drop off items. Use by residential traffic is expected to increase once 8th Street is being worked on over the summer months.
"There's a lot of traffic congestion," Gerber said. "This should keep everything opened up."
The project along 8th Street officially begins March 27, though some utility work has already begun. Work is expected to last seven months and be completed in October.
The blocks affected are from 4th Avenue West to 400 feet before 1st Avenue, which is roughly located at the back driveway of Pick 'n Save. Businesses like Kevin's Appliance and Mattress Superstore, Alpine Slicing and Cheese and Carquest Auto Parts have supply trucks regularly sitting on the side of the street for deliveries.
Director of Public Works Al Gerber said those trucks will no longer be allowed to sit with flashing lights on in order to drop off items. Use by residential traffic is expected to increase once 8th Street is being worked on over the summer months.
"There's a lot of traffic congestion," Gerber said. "This should keep everything opened up."
The project along 8th Street officially begins March 27, though some utility work has already begun. Work is expected to last seven months and be completed in October.