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Drivers Are Hitting The Brakes For JBS Parkway Construction 3/10/13
CBS 7 News Reporter
March 10, 2013
mrist@cbs7.com
ODESSA-With little warning beyond a Friday press release, the City of Odessa cut JBS Parkway in half as it begins a sidewalk construction process.
So far, it's been a headache for drivers.
"There are areas where you turn to the right, some people are going through the barriers,” said Odessa Driver Alex Suniger. “People have been inconsiderate. I've seen so many middle fingers today."
"I know it's been really packed with traffic," said another Odessa Driver John Gomez.
It’s been bumper-to-bumper on JBS in the first weekend of spring break, some drivers say that the barricades are confusing--they're not sure where to drive--and where not.
“It’s not clear, the turning lanes are confusing, it's going to cause an accident," said Gomez.
At least one driver says the improvements are worth the hassle.
"I think it's an upgrade,” said Jackie, a resident of Odessa. “Odessa is coming along and it needs the amenities that a bigger city has."
No word yet on the cost of the project that has drivers hitting the breaks.
Another concern drivers had was that the barriers were placed out Friday, but there has been no construction this weekend.
"We take a break for the weekend," said City of Odessa Spokesperson Andrea Goodson. "They were putting the barrels out on Friday."
When asked about the amount of notification given for the project, Goodson said the public was notified by a release on Friday, March 8.
This first phase of work is expected to be complete in May and will include the addition of sidewalks, curbs and wheelchair ramps.