Two highly anticipated road construction projects are set to begin by the Dutchess County Department of Public Works.

The two projects include reconstruction of roughly two miles of Beekman Road (CR-9) between the Taconic State Parkway and Sylvan Lake Road (CR-10); and replacement of Bridge E-8 over the Fishkill Creek on Phillips Road.

Preliminary work on Beekman Road will bring with tree removal and clearing of shoulder areas. The total project includes extensive reconstruction with new pavement and curve realignments, as well as improved drainage, signage, and expanded shoulders.

Fortunately, despite the large project, Beekman Road will remain open to the roughly 10,000 daily vehicles, and access to local businesses and driveways will be maintained. However, there will be frequent lane closures and traffic delays during the 15-month project.

The Phillips Road Bridge project includes widening the overpass as well as adding shoulders, the county said. During construction, Phillips Road will be closed near the Park Place intersection with a detour directing traffic along Route 216, Green Haven Road (CR-8), and Beekman Road. The bridge project won’t be as lengthy as the one on Beekman Road, and is expected to be open with both lanes of traffic ready by the end of 2020 for the 2,500 daily vehicles.

The county is stressing that travelers who frequently use these routes beware of the construction projects.

“Due to the extent of the improvements to be made, and the projects’ overlapping routes, frequent lane closures and delays should be anticipated,” the county said in a statement. “School buses and emergency service vehicles will be given priority through the work zones. Motorists are encouraged to seek alternate routes during the construction period to avoid delays."

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