Mike Wolanin | The Republic A view of construction work on Taylor Road in Columbus, Ind., Friday, Nov. 5, 2021.
A stretch of Taylor Road that has been closed for reconstruction is likely to reopen today.
Executive Director of Public Works/City Engineer Dave Hayward said contractors expect the section — which spans from 25th Street to Rocky Ford Road — to open today, likely toward the end of the day. The reopening has been somewhat delayed by weather and issues with equipment.
“We just want to encourage people to slow down and take it easy in that area and obey the signs that are there and be safe,” he added.
The stretch from 25th Street to Rocky Ford has largely been closed to most traffic, though it has seen some use. Hayward said it was kept open for residents to move in and out, and some people moved barricades so that they could drive through. However, the road was not officially open at that time.
This same section will have to close in the spring for final paving, which the city engineer estimated might take about a week or less. The date for this work will depend on when asphalt plants open, which typically isn’t until April. The city also wants to have warm weather for laying surface mix, said Hayward. The most likely month for the paving would be May, but he added that this is “just speculation” at this time.
According to city officials, Taylor Road project improvements are intended to make the road significantly safer for drivers, bikers and pedestrians. These improvements include:
- 11-foot roadway lane, one lane in each direction
- A side path on the west side
- A sidewalk on the east side
- New curb and gutter, pavement markings and signage
- Mini roundabouts at multiple intersections
