Construction is expected to start this month on two Virginia Department of Transportation projects at Hayes. The first project will extend the left-turn lane on southbound Route 17 at Brays Point Road and the second will build new sidewalks along Guinea, Hook and Hayes roads.

According to VDOT spokesperson Kelly Hannon, the $1.9 million project at Brays Point Road will reduce congestion on the Route 17 southbound traffic lanes to accommodate increased traffic traveling to recreational facilities on Brays Point Road. Woodville Park is located about a mile down Brays Point Road.

Meanwhile, Hannon said the sidewalk project aims to improve pedestrian access to businesses and residential areas along the Route 17 corridor. She said a total of 1.5 miles of sidewalk will be included with the project and pedestrian crossing signal equipment will be added at the intersection of Route 17 and Hook and Guinea roads.

Hannon said drivers will notice construction along Route 17 in the area the side...