WINOOSKI, Vt. (WCAX) – The commute to work looking sluggish for some drivers in Winooski.
Locals tell WCAX the Main Street construction headache that started in April is becoming a migraine.
It’s a nightmare for Marcelo Tomasi just to get out of his driveway, let alone get to work. And coming home what’s usually a 15-minute drive, takes 40 minutes. “I can see my place, but I can’t get there.”
It’s been nearly six months since Winooski’s main street revitalization project kicked off. Winooski Public Works director Jon Rauscher says crews are busy balancing underground utility replacement and road reconstruction.
“This part of the construction is probably like peak disruption because we’re doing road reconstruction and we’re doing utility work at the same time. Crews are trying to wrap up before the winter shutdown,” said Rauscher. Weaver Street
While one lane is open to northbound traffic — southbound is detoured to Weaver Street. That’s where Tomasi lives.
“Frustrating, because it’s been going on forever. I don’t even remember when they started, and it doesn’t seem like they’re gonna end anytime soon,” said Tomasi.
Businesses along the corridor say the noise and construction are driving customers away. John Ignaczak says he only braves the drive for absolute necessities. “It’s always just like a nightmare over there. You got the grocery stores that way, so I kind of have to hit it all the time,” said Ignaczak. in
Crews will pause construction in late November or early December, opening up both lanes with some portions paved.
They’ll resume next year, burying powerlines underground, making wider sidewalks, updating signs and lighting, plus landscaping.
Rauscher hopes more reliable infrastructure and safer commuting for walkers and bikers will make the hassle worth it. “Most of the utilities are over 100 years old, so replacing those utilities, having reliable water, sewer service for residents is obviously a key piece of this.”
While crews push on the city encourages drivers to stick to detours when possible and consult their weekly main street notices for updates.