Drivers traveling through downtown Grants Pass should expect delays and detours later this week as road construction crews prepare to conduct asphalt grinding and paving work along a section of Bridge Street.
Beginning Wednesday, May 27, and continuing through Friday, May 29, westbound traffic on Bridge Street between Fifth and Sixth streets will be closed to through traffic each day from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. The temporary closure is expected to affect one of the city’s more heavily traveled downtown corridors during daytime business hours.
According to the construction notice, traffic traveling west on Bridge Street will be redirected onto Fourth Street while crews complete paving operations in the area. Flaggers and marked detours are scheduled to be in place throughout the project in an effort to guide motorists safely around the work zone and reduce congestion.
The road work is part of ongoing street maintenance aimed at improving pavement conditions and roadway surfaces in the downtown district. Asphalt grinding and paving operations typically involve the removal of worn pavement layers before new asphalt is installed, a process designed to extend the life of the roadway and improve driving conditions.
Motorists are being encouraged to avoid the affected area whenever possible and use alternate routes during construction hours. Traffic delays are expected, particularly during morning and afternoon travel periods when commuter activity is higher near the downtown corridor.
The closure is also expected to impact access for emergency response vehicles. Officials stated that emergency vehicles will not be permitted through the construction zone while paving operations are underway, making route planning especially important for drivers and service providers traveling through the area.
Businesses and residents near the closure zone may also experience increased traffic on surrounding streets as drivers navigate around the work area. Local officials are asking motorists to slow down, follow posted signs, and use caution when traveling near crews and equipment.
Construction activity is scheduled to conclude by Friday evening, weather permitting. Any unexpected delays or schedule changes could alter the timeline depending on road and paving conditions.
Questions regarding the project or traffic impacts can be directed to Timber Mountain at 541-956-8700.