BERRIEN SPRINGS, Mich. -- A $2.7 million dollar road construction project is set to begin early next week in Berrien Springs that will, "provide a smoother driving surface, improve safety for all users and extend the life of the roadway," Michigan Department of Transportaion officials said.

The 3.6-mile section of M-139, beginning at the intersection of Deans Hill Road on the east side of Berrien Springs and stretching to the intersection of Hinchman Road on the northwest of Berrien Springs, will be closed for a repaving project that starts Monday, April 14.

"The $2.7 million investment includes asphalt repaving, a new pedestrian refuge west of Kephart Lane, concrete sidewalk ramp upgrades and new pavement markings," MDOT officials said. "Based on economic modeling, this investment is expected to directly and indirectly support 26 jobs."

The project is expected to last until Friday, Aug 1 with one lane will be open in each direction with lane closures and traffic regulators throughout.