The Highway 100 bridge and on- and off-ramps at Vernon Avenue will reopen in mid-November after being closed since Sept. 15, Engineering Director Chad Milner announced during Thursday's project update meeting.

The reopening marks a major milestone in the Vernon Avenue Highway 100 interchange project, which has created significant traffic challenges in the district for more than two months. Eden Avenue has experienced heavy congestion during school pickup and drop-off times, while Benton Avenue has seen increased traffic volumes.

The bridge will initially operate with stop signs before potentially transitioning to temporary traffic signals, depending on traffic flow. Drivers exiting northbound Highway 100 will be able to turn left or right, while southbound traffic will continue using the loop around Hilltop Restaurant to access Arcadia Avenue due to median installation.

Construction on the Vernon Avenue bridge over the railway has begun with footings poured last week, but work will halt for winter and resume in April 2025. The city plans to install a temporary traffic signal at the Interlocken Boulevard and Gus Young Lane intersection in early December, reopening three of four legs of that intersection.

Final asphalt paving and bridge railing installation are scheduled for next week. The project, which runs from west of Interlocken Boulevard to west of Graange Road, aims to improve safety and mobility while creating separated pedestrian routes. One final bi-weekly meeting is scheduled for Nov. 13 before the city determines next year's communication plan.