These trees have been removed between Mitchell and Wolcott streets on Janesville's south side in preparation for reconstruction of Center Avenue set to begin in the spring. Dan Plutchak/JNR photo
These trees have been removed between Mitchell and Wolcott streets on Janesville's south side in preparation for reconstruction of Center Avenue set to begin in the spring. Dan Plutchak/JNR photo

JANESVILLE — Gov. Tony Evers recently signed a $9.4 million contract to reconstruct US 51 (Center Avenue) between Nicolet Street and Court Street in Janesville.

Preliminary work already is under way.

A public information meeting will be held on March 14 to provide an overview of construction work, schedule and traffic impacts. The meeting will be Thursday, March 14 at 5:30 p.m. at the Rock County Resource Center, 1717 Center Ave, Janesville.

Improvements include replacing the pavement, updating traffic signals, updating guard rail, and repairing a railroad bridge and Rock River bridge.

During construction US 51 will be closed and detoured to through traffic. The road will remain open to businesses and residences in the work zone. Traffic will be able to cross the river on Center Avenue for the duration of the project.

The project is expected to be completed in November. Rock Road Companies, Inc. is the prime contractor.

Motorists are reminded that using handheld cell phones in Wisconsin work zones is illegal. Alerts and updates provided via these sites are not intended for use while driving. When driving, your focus should always be on driving.