Commissioners approve contract for $3M South Avenue widening project

BOARDMAN, Ohio - Mahoning County Commissioners have approved to begin a $3 million project to reduce congestion and improve safety along a busy stretch of South Avenue in Boardman.
During their regular Thursday meeting, the board of commissioners voted on granting Lindy Paving the contract to widen a .79 mile stretch of South Avenue from Lake Park Road to Mathews Road.
The latest available traffic counts show that more than 14,000 cars and trucks use the section of South Avenue each day.
Eighty percent of the cost would be covered by a federal grant.
The widening project, scheduled to begin on July 1, will provide a two-way left-turn lane from north of Mathews Road to Lake Park Road, a right-turn-only lane and a left-turn only lane for the southbound traffic at Indianola Road, and a left-turn only lane for the northbound traffic at Moyer Avenue.
In addition, there will be a left-turn only lane for the northbound traffic at Afton Avenue, a left-turn only lane for the northbound traffic at Indianola Road, a left-turn only lane for the southbound traffic at Madonda Street and a left-turn only lane for the southbound traffic at Lake Park Road.
Additional improvements include curb and gutter replacement, driveway reconstruction throughout the project limits, and traffic signal upgrades.
During construction, a minimum of one 10-foot lane will always be maintained in each direction. Signs, drums, and cones will be used to help direct drivers through the work zone.
Access will be maintained to all adjacent properties and businesses for the duration of the project.
Mahoning County Engineer Pat Ginnetti said the project should be completed September 30, 2021.