The final phase of converting two major streets through downtown Peoria to two-way traffic goes into effect Tuesday morning.
Weather permitting, the Jefferson Avenue change-over between Walnut and Fayette streets starts at 10 a.m. This follows the recent phased implementation of two-way traffic on Adams Street.
City leaders sought the return to two-way traffic as part of the effort to revitalize downtown. The belief is it will slow down motorists and improve access to downtown buildings and amenities.
Construction for the $19 million infrastructure project has taken more than two years to complete, although the concept has been under consideration for more than a decade.
It includes new stoplight signals, a center lane for left turns on both streets, a bike lane, improved pedestrian crossings and sidewalk bump-outs and other improvements.
Some finishing touches remain, such as traffic signal timing adjustments and parking meter installations.
Motorists are urged to stay aware of the new traffic patterns, signals, signage and pavement markings. Drivers and pedestrians should look both ways before entering or crossing Jefferson.
