Highway 111 Pavement Rehab Begins: Locals Brace for Traffic, But Welcome Repairs

Today marks the official start of the Highway 111 Pavement Rehabilitation Project, bringing with it a mix of relief and concern for local residents and business owners. The construction spans from Washington Street to Jefferson, with both sidewalk and lane closures now in effect. For many living in the area, the disruptions were expected—but deemed necessary.

“I’ve been living here for nine years, and definitely 111 needs to be repaved,” said one local resident. “There are a lot of bumps and jumps, so I’m happy it’s being done—and being done at the right time.”

The timing, during the slower summer months, was intentional, but not everyone is convinced it's convenient.

“Is it the right time to do this? It’s never the right time,” another resident added. “There will always be an inconvenience to someone—but it has to be done.”

Business owners along the stretch of Highway 111 expressed concern over how construction-related traffic could impact customer flow.

“Well, I think the traffic does inconvenience a lot of the customers,” said a local store owner. “For my store, I’ll have to see first. But the first concern for everyone in this kind of business is that traffic will get too busy. We’re very concerned about losing customers.”

The co-owner of The Palms Café offered practical advice to patrons, suggesting they plan visits outside of peak hours. “The lane closures might make it easier to come during the morning instead of lunch. That could help,” he said.

While the current stretch of construction is set to conclude by July 11, the broader project will continue through October, with periodic lane shifts and closures expected.

Despite the short-term challenges, most locals seem to agree that the long-term benefits outweigh the inconvenience.