GULFPORT, MS (WLOX) -
A large scale widening project is still underway on the heavily traveled Seaway Road in Gulfport, and many drivers can't wait for it to end.
"So far, the commuters on that road have been really patient with us and we appreciate their patience," City of Gulfport Spokesman Ryan LaFontaine said. "We know it's always a struggle, but when this is finished, we know it's going to make everyone happy."
That happiness will come from obvious changes to the busy roadway, going from two lanes to five.
"It's an interesting project. It's done in two halves," LaFontaine explained. "The first half, the east half, is just about complete. We still have a little piping to put down and then we'll overlay it after that. The first half is probably about two and a half to three months away, but we're getting close."
LaFontaine said the second half, now in its design phase, is about 10 months away from beginning. A pedestrian walkway will be included in the final phase of the project.
"The benefits are that its going to be brand new infrastructure. That's always just a huge plus. Infrastructure, not just in Gulfport, but everywhere, that's just in need of repair throughout the country. Anytime you can upgrade any piece of infrastructure, no matter how large or small, it's always a good deal."
So while the complex roadwork may be tedious to some drivers, in the end it's guaranteed to lead to a smoother commute.
LaFontaine said it's too early to estimate a completion date. Funding for the expansion is being provided by both MDA and MDOT.
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