Drivers traveling through one of Connecticut’s busiest highway interchanges will need to adjust to a major traffic change this week as a long-running construction project in Meriden reaches a significant milestone.

The Connecticut Department of Transportation’s reconfiguration of the Interstate 91, Route 15 and Interstate 691 interchange is entering a new phase with the permanent closure of Exit 17 on Interstate 91 North beginning Thursday night.

The more than $700 million project is aimed at improving safety and traffic flow through a corridor that has long been known for congestion and crashes.

“It’s sort of like the Bermuda Triangle of Connecticut and everyone’s like wants to avoid this exchange because it’s been so many accidents,” Meriden resident Elaine Ferraro said.

Construction on the interchange has been underway for several years, and drivers have already navigated multiple traffic pattern changes. Some residents say the ongoing work has created additional challenges as motorists adjust to shifting lane configurations.

“People are changing lanes rapidly as the exits are approaching. It’s causing a lot of problems,” Meriden resident Kurt Ganon said. “I can hear (sirens) pretty much almost it seems like it’s almost hourly that there’s different sirens from crashes that are occurring throughout the intersections.”

Beginning Thursday night, motorists who previously used Exit 17 to access Route 15 will instead use Exit 16. Drivers will have two options after taking Exit 16: veer left to continue onto Route 15 North and I-691 westbound, or stay right to access East Main Street.

Ferraro said she is curious to see the effect of the new traffic pattern.

“Is that going to be really congested? Everyone lining up for the one exit? We’ll see” Ferraro said.

The DOT previously said the project is expected to be completed in about four years from now. Future phases of construction include a new ramp connecting I-91 south to Route 15 south.

Despite the temporary disruptions, some residents believe the improvements will ultimately benefit drivers.

“I think it needed to be done. The area has been a problem for a long time. So I’m definitely happy that they’re doing the work. I think in the long run it will be worth it,” Ganon said.

If weather conditions cooperate, the exit closure and traffic shift are scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. on Thursday.

NBC Connecticut

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