Construction closes Charter Street

North Charter Street between University Avenue and Linden Drive has been closed to northbound traffic so that contractors can install a domestic water line, and electric and signal ductbanks. Drivers are being detoured west on University Avenue to Babcock Drive.

“The goal is to have traffic on Charter Street back to normal before the Observatory Drive road construction project starts later this summer,” says Facilities Planning and Management engineer Steve Harman.

The sidewalk on the west side of Charter Street has been relocated next to the Medical Sciences Center in the form of an 8-foot-wide boardwalk, which pedestrians are encouraged to use. Bicyclists are asked to take the posted detour or walk their bikes.

Harman says southbound traffic flow will be monitored, and if any problems or conflicts develop during construction hours, Charter Street may have to be closed to all traffic except buses, and maintenance and delivery vehicles.

The University Avenue phase of the project, which is to begin soon, should not affect traffic. Pedestrians may, at times, be redirected.

Harman says the entire project should be completed in November.