LEWISTON – State-funded work along a half-mile of Russell Street should go on next spring, despite a delay in other paving projects.

“The plan has been to put the project out to bid this fall, and begin work on it in the spring,” said Lewiston Public Services Director Dave Jones. “It still is the plan. We’ve got a few details to work out with (Bates) College, and probably some utility work this fall. But we’re still planning to move it ahead.”

Plans call for redesigning the road between the Vietnam Veterans Bridge and Robinson Gardens, especially adding turning lanes at Central Avenue and College Street.

Russell Street is a busy street because it feeds directly onto the Vietnam Veterans Bridge, across the river and into the Auburn Mall and retail area. It’s a four-lane road that forces traffic to stop behind anyone turning into Central Avenue, Bardwell Street or College Road.

Plans call for widening the entire length of Russell Street, essentially adding a lane. A median will take up most of that new lane, except in front of the busiest intersections. The state is adding a dedicated turn lane there.

“Plus, we plan to make those intersections much safer, with signals and crosswalks,” Jones said. “The College Street intersection is probably one of the most dangerous in the city, and this work is going to improve the entire situation.”

The state announced last month that it was delaying $14.3 million worth paving projects statewide, due to increases in the cost of asphalt. In Lewiston, the state will suspend paving work on Main Street between Lisbon Street and Riverside and a 1.28 mile project along East Avenue.

“But most of the projects delayed were overlays, just paving projects that can be pushed back,” Jones said. “As far as we know, this project is still going forward.”