Gainesville began the first phase of a Gainesville Water Resources utility improvements project on Maple Street Monday, bringing temporary road closures and traffic pattern changes in the downtown area. Did you notice already?
Through October, Maple Street will operate as a one-way route for southbound traffic only between the Hunt Tower parking lot and Broad Street. Northbound traffic will not be permitted on that section. Maple Street between Spring Street and the Hunt Tower parking lot will remain closed during construction.
The project has also resulted in several temporary detours.
Drivers traveling eastbound on Spring Street toward the downtown square will not be able to access Maple Street directly. Motorists are being directed to turn right onto Main Street, then right into the Hunt Tower parking lot before accessing Maple Street.
Eastbound traffic on Broad Street heading toward the square will also be unable to access Maple Street. The designated detour route directs drivers to turn left onto Main Street, then left into the Hunt Tower parking lot and left onto Maple Street.
City officials are advising motorists to use caution in the construction zone, follow posted detour signs and remain alert for construction workers and equipment.