Road reconstruction work is expected to begin later this spring in the Purves Lagoon neighborhood, bringing long-awaited improvements to aging streets affected by past high water levels.

Construction is scheduled to start in late March or early April, weather permitting, on Circle Ridge Place and East Walnut Place between South Ridgeway Drive and South Tomahawk Avenue. The project includes removing and replacing curb and gutter, resetting inlet castings to improve drainage, excavating and restoring sunken roadway areas, restoring lawns with topsoil and seed, and installing new pavement.

District 4 Alderman Spencer Gustafson said the upgrades are necessary after years of deterioration caused by flooding and prolonged soil saturation.

“These roads are long overdue for repair,” Gustafson said. “Historically high water levels several years ago compromised the roadway base, and we wanted to make sure we designed a solution that truly fixes the problem rather than just patching it.”

City engineers have incorporated a specially designed webbed stabilization system intended to perform better in moisture-prone conditions and extend the lifespan of the streets.

Gustafson acknowledged construction may cause temporary inconvenience to residents, but emphasized the long-term benefits.

“I know infrastructure projects can test everyone’s patience, especially in waterfront neighborhoods,” he said. “This is a thoughtful, long-term investment in the (Purves Lagoon) area.”

Additional infrastructure work is planned this summer, including replacing a culvert under Ridgeway Drive near the marina. Full reconstruction of Ridgeway Drive is currently scheduled for next year.