Repairs on Prairie Avenue in Pueblo start this week, will likely last until mid-November

A paving project at South Prairie Avenue will begin this week and is expected to last until mid-November, the city of Pueblo announced Friday. 

The work will take place on Prairie between Pueblo Boulevard and Northern Avenue and involves resurfacing that entire section of roadway. Contractors will also replace damaged curbs and sidewalks, relocate pedestrian sidewalks and install a new traffic signal at O’Neal Avenue, according to a news release. 

“South Prairie Avenue has long been in need of improvement due to wear and tear from heavy traffic, weather conditions and the passage of time,” Andrew Hayes, director of public works for the city, said in the release. “The City of Pueblo recognizes the inconvenience and discomfort that commuters and residents have endured on this critical thoroughfare and we are committed to delivering a smoother and safer driving experience for everyone.”

The city earlier this month indicated contractors would likely soon begin work to improve the condition of Prairie Avenue, which Hayes previously said was in “pretty rough shape.” Crews at the time began smaller projects in that area such as repairing sidewalks, curbs, gutters and relocating utility poles, among other improvements, in preparation for this latest project. 

The project has an estimated cost of $1.4 million and is one of the more expensive endeavors in the city’s 2023 street repairs plan. It had been in the works for years until the city and Colorado Department of Transportation met certain benchmarks so it could move forward. 

“(The project’s) commencement marks a significant step toward improving the condition of the major roads in our city,” Mayor Nick Gradisar said in the release. “We are dedicated to enhancing the daily lives of our residents and ensuring that our roadways are safe and reliable."

Hayes estimated that commuters should expect minimal delays during the project’s duration and that the roadway along that area of Prairie might shift to one lane at times to help crews safely complete their work. Those delays might add a few extra minutes to a person’s commute, he said, and drivers might be asked to take a detour, if necessary.

What others are reading:Sol Sandoval running for reelection to Pueblo D60 school board

Chieftain reporter Josue Perez can be reached at JHPerez@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter @josuepwrites. Support local news, subscribe to The Pueblo Chieftain atsubscribe.chieftain.com.