Major renovations to the Communication Rd. exit of Hwy. 401 are in full effect in Chatham-Kent, and OPP hope drivers will be patient and safe as crews work on the road.
Hwy. 401 lane reductions are in effect in both directions at the exit, and flag workers are directing traffic across the bridge of Communication Rd. OPP Constable Jay Denorer says any crashes or issues could create lengthy delays on the highway, but encourages drivers to be understanding.
"We still have to do what we're mandated to do and that's investigate collisions," says Denorer. "So once we investigate and it's known we can clear the scene, as quick as we can we'll get the vehicles out and get traffic moving again.
Back in July 2015, construction on the 401 near Tilbury saw a spike in collisions and delays. Denorer reminds the public that penalties will still be enforced.
"There were changes to the Highway Traffic Act which resulted in the doubling of fines when you're speeding through a construction zone while workers are present," says Denorer.
Denorer adds construction will affect the 401 from Communication Rd. to Harwich Rd. until December, with work on Communication Rd. completely wrapping up in spring 2017.