The state Department of Transportation has a December surprise in store for Norfolk residents and any motorist who travels Route 44: work to rebuild the crumbling retaining walls will continue through the winter and end two years earlier than planned. Long-suffering flagmen (and women) will also get a break with the installation of a temporary signal light and other traffic alerts.

The $37.2 million project is being managed by K2 Infrastructure Group and requires relocation of utilities and sewer lines, as well as removal of dozens of trees on the steep slopes below Memorial Green and Center Cemetery. It was originally expected to pause during the winter months and take four years to complete. DOT offered no explanation for the shift in timing but noted in a press release that the department was “pleased” to announce the change and projected a September 2026 completion dat
The temporary traffic light, which began operating on Monday, Dec. 2, is expected to be in place through Nov. 14, 2025. It will control one-way traffic through the construction zone and be supplemented by variable messaging throughout the construction area.

In making the announcement, DOT warned motorists to exercise caution in driving through the area. The schedule is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances, including weather.