Drivers in Meriden, Connecticut, will need to adjust to a major traffic change this week as the long-running construction project on the Interstate 91, Route 15, and Interstate 691 interchange reaches a significant milestone. The permanent closure of Exit 17 on Interstate 91 North began Thursday night, marking a new phase in the project.

Project Overview

The more than $700 million project aims to improve safety and traffic flow through a corridor known for congestion and crashes. Construction on the interchange has been underway for several years, with drivers already navigating multiple traffic pattern changes.

Some residents say the ongoing work has created additional challenges as motorists adjust to shifting lane configurations. “People are changing lanes rapidly as the exits are approaching. It’s causing a lot of problems,” said Meriden resident Kurt Ganon. “I can hear sirens pretty much almost hourly that there’s different sirens from crashes that are occurring throughout the intersections.”

Beginning Thursday night, motorists who previously used Exit 17 to access Route 15 will instead use Exit 16. Drivers will have two options after taking Exit 16: veer left to continue onto Route 15 North and I-691 westbound, or stay right to access East Main Street.

Meriden resident Elaine Ferraro is curious to see the effect of the new traffic pattern. “Is that going to be really congested? Everyone lining up for the one exit? We’ll see,” Ferraro said.

The project is expected to be completed in about four years. Future phases of construction include a new ramp connecting I-91 south to Route 15 south. Despite temporary disruptions, some residents believe the improvements will ultimately benefit drivers.

“I think it needed to be done. The area has been a problem for a long time. So I’m definitely happy that they’re doing the work. I think in the long run it will be worth it,” Ganon said.

Original reporting: NBC Connecticut (Hartford) — read the source article.