With the new Ironton-Russell Bridge taking shape on both sides of the Ohio River, traffic changes will soon be imparted on U.S. Route 23 in Kentucky to make way for construction of a new intersection.

As part of the bridge replacement project in Lawrence County, contractors for the Ohio Department of Transportation will reconstruct the intersection for the bridge’s approach in Kentucky.

When completed, the new signalized intersection will provide for turning movements to and from the bridge to U.S. 23, as well as Kentucky 244 (Bellefonte Street) at the viaduct.

Crews will restrict southbound U.S. 23 traffic to one thru lane, closing the passing lane to traffic at the junction with Bellefonte Street and the viaduct, adjacent to the approach for the new structure.

Northbound U.S. 23 will continue to be maintained in one through lane and one turn lane for Bellefonte Street; however, traffic patterns will be shifted to the north through the work zone.

The restrictions are scheduled to be imparted Monday and they will be in effect through early August. Motorists are reminded of the need for additional caution in the work zone.

Brayman Construction Corporation of Saxonburg, Pennsylvania, was awarded a contract for approximately $81.3 million to build a new Ohio River crossing between Ironton, Ohio, and Russell, Kentucky, and major construction is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2016.

For information on additional lane and road closures caused by construction, accidents, flooding or other related traffic events throughout the state, visit ODOT on the web at www.Ohgo.com. Follow ODOT District 9 on Twitter at https://twitter.com/ODOT_SouthOhio and Facebook at www.facebook.com/ODOTDistrict9.