PHOENIX — Drivers traveling between Phoenix and Payson this month on State Route 87 north of Sunflower will be shifted onto the northbound lanes starting Thursday, April 9 between mileposts 223 and 229. Delays of up to 25 minutes are possible.

Traffic in both directions will use the northbound lanes which will become a two-lane roadway through the work zone and a 10-foot width restriction will be in place through April 24.

For the past few weeks, crews have been working 24-hour days, six days a week (Monday through Saturday) to ensure the project will be done before the Memorial Day weekend.

Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead and allow extra time to reach their destinations and proceed through the work zone with caution, comply with the reduced speed limit, and be alert for construction equipment and personnel. The work zone will be clearly marked by temporary barricades and signage.

The $6.2 million safety improvement project, which began in October, approximately seven miles south of the State Route 188 junction, includes the reconstruction of an existing curve at milepost 227, as well as building a new northbound truck escape ramp at milepost 228.