First Avenue in Altoona to be closed for major reconstruction project's final phase

A major road reconstruction project in Altoona is in its final stretch.

The city announced Monday it's in the $4.9 million final stage of the First Avenue South reconstruction project, which includes widening the road through Altoona's historic central neighborhood from Second Street Southeast to Eighth Street Southeast and replacing the aging city utility lines under the ground.

The official detour will go around First Avenue via Second Street Northwest, Fifth Avenue Northwest and Eighth Street, according to a news release. Closures begin June 12 and work is expected to continue through the rest of 2023, the release said.

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The First Avenue reconstruction project began in 2019 in order to widen a one-mile stretch that was narrower than sections to the north and south. The city also aimed to improve water and sewer infrastructure and trail and sidewalk access.

The first phase was done in 2019 and included railroad crossing improvements and reconstruction of First Avenue from Second Street Northwest to Second Street Southwest. The two-year second phase started in 2021 to reconstruct First Avenue from Ninth Street Northwest to Second Street Northwest, including a new roundabout at the Ninth Street Northwest intersection.

Chris Higgins covers the eastern suburbs for the Register. Reach him at chiggins@registermedia.com or 515-423-5146 and follow him on Twitter @chris_higgins_

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: First Avenue in Altoona closes for construction with detours posted