A major construction project in West Allis is about to get underway.
The National Avenue Construction Project will start on Monday, May 14th. The project will be in three phases over the next three years. The construction will run from 70th and National to 95th and National.
Residents and businesses aren't thrilled about the coming project, but they do understand that it needs to be done. Paul Aprahamian is a long time resident of West Allis and he's happy for the construction.
"You kinda wonder where all the money is going for all the road work and it's about time that we started fixing everything up. It'd be nice too if people are respectful too of the road workers who are working. Also people be courteous of other drivers during construction and everything," says Aprahamian.
The first phase of construction will be from 70th to 76th street. The West Allis Senior Center, Public Library, Health and Fire Department are all part of the first phase. Fire Department Lieutenant Jason Schaak says city officials and public leaders met months in advance and already have a plan in place.
"We have resources throughout the city at multiple locations. All of them have a very fast response time. Less than 5 minutes. On average we're about 2 and half to three minutes," says Schaak.
The West Allis Public Library Director Michael Koszalka says this construction project created an opportunity to bring the library to the community. Starting in June there will be mobile libraries carrying popular books that you can check out or return and get a library card.
Phase two will be on work starting at 92nd to 95th street, while the final phase will be from 76th to 82nd street. To help residents plan ahead the city has posted signs around the community and has information on its website.
