AUGUSTA COUNTY, VA (Rocktown Now) — Construction began last week on improvements to motorist and pedestrian safety along Route 11 (Lee Highway) in Augusta County. The project extends from the intersection with Route 1049 (Rolling Thunder Lane) through the Route 262 (Woodrow Wilson Parkway) interchange to the Staunton southern city limits.

The project will replace the center turn lane with raised medians that allow left turns only at designated median openings. Most of the commercial access driveways and side streets will be restricted to right turns in and out between Payne Lane and the northern intersection with Orchard Hill Circle. Officials say this will reduce crashes by restricting the number of conflict points onto Route 11.

The project also will construct a sidewalk on the eastern side of Route 11 from Frontier Drive to the existing sidewalk near the Staunton city limits at Greenville Avenue. Other improvements will include crosswalks, ADA-compliant sidewalk ramps, and traffic signal modifications.

During initial construction, motorists should expect turn lane closures on Route 11 at the intersection with Orchard Hill Circle from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. Additional lane and shoulder closures will occur as the project progresses.

At least one lane will remain open in each direction at all times.

All work is weather permitting, and schedules are subject to change.