ANKENY, Iowa — There is lots to love about summer, but construction is rarely a favorite of the season.
In Ankeny, construction started on the intersection of SW Oralabor Road and SW State Street on Monday, a massive project that will overhaul the area. But that intersection is just the tip of the iceberg.
The impact of that construction is starting off small. For now, the only change is that drivers can't take a right onto SW State St. But that's just the first phase of the project, which will eventually add dual left turn lanes, two through lanes, and an underpass for smaller travelers.
"20,000 to 25,000 vehicles a day go through each approach to that intersection, and this project is to be done to improve mobility and safety for both vehicular traffic and pedestrian and bicycle traffic," said Mark Mueller, Director of Public Works for the city of Ankeny.
The southbound lanes on SW State State are closed between W 1st Street and Ordnance Road for reconstruction. Portions of Ordnance Road are being blocked off for re-paving as well. The city also recently closed the intersection of NE 36th Street and Fourmile Drive for renovations, leaving residents to use miles-long detours to navigate the area.
"It's made [my son] have to leave for school half an hour earlier. It's it's been quite an inconvenience," said Bonnie Scott, an Ankeny resident.
Officials believe the work is necessary due to Ankeny's explosive growth; the city has added more than 25,000 people since 2010. Residents who spoke to Local 5 said they think the results will be worth the headaches.
"I am optimistic that it will help with the traffic flow and reduce all the block up on 18th St, especially during school times, when little kids are out walking to and from school," Scott said.