POULSBO – A project designed to improve safety and reduce collisions will begin next week as crews install traffic signals at two busy State Route 3 intersections near Poulsbo.

Work will start Monday, Feb. 4, and the new traffic signals at Pioneer Way Northwest and Big Valley Road Northeast are expected to be up and running in mid-May.

During construction, motorists should expect shoulder closures and lane shifts throughout the day. Two-way traffic will be maintained at all times; there will be occasional lane closures at night.

Currently at these two locations, it is difficult for drivers to turn left onto SR 3 due to heavy traffic volumes. This stretch of highway averages about 17,000 vehicles a day.

The addition of the signals will provide drivers a far safer, less stressful entry to the highway.

Totem Electric of Tacoma, Inc. was awarded the construction contract for this $695,730 project.

For project details, go to www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/SR3/PioneerSignals/.