HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) — A major road construction project continues along a stretch of 2nd Street in Harrisburg. The goal? To turn that part into two-way traffic and improve safety for pedestrians. abc27’s Mark Hall spoke with city officials on Wednesday with an update.

The construction is ongoing and scheduled to be finished towards the end of 2022. It is taking place between Forster and Division Streets. The project is part of Vision Zero, an initiative to make the city safer. Plus, it will not only make it easier to get in and around the city but also give downtown businesses a boost.

The traffic lights at Verbeke, Reilly and Kelker Streets will all be replaced with roundabouts. Also, new Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant ramps will be placed at every intersection and there will be new brighter street lights posts. However, there will not be a bike lane.

Plus, about 70 parking spots would be eliminated with the new design. City officials are asking everyone to be patient for the improvements will be well worth it.

“We have had a lot of accidents and fatalities involving bikes, cars, and trucks. We are trying to reduce that and what this does is make 2nd Steet a two way, reduce the speed, and make it a two way going north and south into the city, and give an opportunity for residents in the area to make growth in their homes,” said the project manager, Percy Bullock.

Construction crews are currently milling 2nd Street, which means they are removing the currently paved surface so they can lay down a fresh layer in the coming weeks. The street is expected to be two-way by June, and all other enhancements done by November.

The street will remain open throughout the remainder of the process, but an occasional closure will be in place to accommodate some tasks.

“The number one thing for residents is to stay tuned and be patient,” Bullock said. “We’re making noise in the morning. It’s troublesome in the beginning but satisfaction in the end, and I know everyone will be happy.”