The bid process had started for a signalization improvement project in Ironton that will replace traffic lights at six intersections.

In addition to the new traffic signals, the intersections of Park Avenue at Sixth, Fifth, Fourth, and Third streets and Adams Street at Second and Third streets will have increased turning radii, new curb cuts and handicapped-accessible curbs.

Ironton Mayor Rich Blankenship said the project has been ongoing for about three years and was funded by a grant from the KYOVA Interstate Planning Commission.

“It’s a major project,” Blankenship said.

According to the bid notice by the city, the cost of the project is a little more than $1.3 million. Bids will be accepted until 11 a.m. Dec. 19.

Blankenship said the new traffic signals would be similar to the ones in Ashland, Ky., and add a more appealing look to the intersections.

In addition to aesthetics, the new signals would be safer, Blankenship said.

“Right now, some are just hanging there by wires that we have had to rig up,” he said. “…When we get a big windstorm, we don’t know if they will fall.”

Blankenship said construction should begin next year.