Massachusetts Route 9 is to undergo a 7.8 mile long construction this summer, creating some anxiety for commuters as well as local residents and businesses. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation has launched a new website to provide updates on construction, delays and closures. The stretch of Route 9 under construction reaches from Walnut Street in Natick to the Framingham-Southborough line.

The construction project is projected to cost $12.5 million and will be paid for by federal stimulus funds. The construction should focus on resurfacing the roads and improving ramps as well as signs. The project also includes improvements for pedestrians and bicyclists, safety upgrades and drainage work. The first phase of the Route 9 construction is to begin this summer and is to temporarily end this November 19th allowing drivers to get through the area for holiday shopping. Construction will start up again in April 2011 and is expected to be finished June 2011. Select shoulders will be closed this week as construction begins on the Route 9 project.

To access the route 9 website with weekly updates click here.