Construction work has begun on Second Street between Church Street and Trudeau Street in Natchitoches.

The section of Second Street will remain closed to all traffic for approximately three weeks, weather permitting, as crews remove and replace deteriorated concrete pavement along with existing water and sewer lines.

The first phase of the project will also include the closure of the Second Street and Church Street intersection for installation of a new sewer manhole. That portion of the work is not expected to begin before the week of June 29.

Once work is completed between Church Street and Trudeau Street, construction will continue on Second Street from Trudeau Street to Touline Street. The final phase will involve Touline Street from Second Street to Fourth Street.

Motorists will be required to detour around work areas using adjacent city streets. Those who typically park along the affected street segments will need to park elsewhere while construction is underway.

Water and sewer service to nearby businesses, residences and other buildings is expected to remain available throughout the project, except for brief periods when new utility lines are connected to existing systems.

The project is being completed through the State Capital Outlay Program, with the State of Louisiana covering 75 percent of the costs. Skyplex Trucking, LLC of Natchitoches was awarded the $2.3 million contract.

The City of Natchitoches urged motorists to follow all traffic control devices in the construction area. For more information, contact the City Engineer’s Office at 318-357-3877.