LONDONDERRY — Construction is expected to start this month on three Interstate 93 ramps at Exit 5, part of a larger highway-widening project.
The cost for the ramp work is $16.1 million. The work consists of the southbound on- and off-ramps and the northbound on-ramp, according to the state Department of Transportation.
The contract was awarded to Severino Trucking Co. of Candia. The project's completion is expected in November 2009.
The remaining northbound off-ramp will be replaced as part of a future contract.
When finished, the three new ramps will allow the Exit 5 interchange to handle more vehicles and improve safety, the department said.
The ramp work is necessary for the future replacement of four deficient "red list" bridges within the interchange.
The overall I-93 project will widen the highway from two to four lanes in both directions along a 20-mile stretch between Salem and Manchester.
The latest cost estimate for the project is $750 million, and the work includes several Park & Ride facilities, including one at Exit 5 with about 440 parking places.
The parking facilities will support expanded bus service, which is expected to reduce congestion on I-93.
