MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A major reconstruction project has officially begun on Milwaukee's south side.

Over the next three years, more than two-and-a-half miles of National Avenue will be completely transformed for traffic calming and safety.

Work is now underway for the construction season here on W. National Avenue.

Phase one of the project spans from S. 39th St. to S. 27th/Layton Boulevard.

The work is meant to make the entire corridor safer for drivers and pedestrians. 

CBS 58

A big impact is already in place; eastbound National Avenue is currently closed from 40th to Layton Boulevard.

The project will add raised protected bike lanes, raised crosswalks, curb extensions, flashing beacons, high visibility markings, updated lighting and signals, and replaced pavement throughout.

There will also be lane reductions to calm traffic.

The city is implementing the "face grant" for the more than 50 businesses along the phase one corridor.

The grant helps maintain business access to customers.

The Via Community Development Corporation, which supports the Silver City, Burnham Park and Layton Park neighborhoods, is working directly with businesses during the construction to give them support and visibility.

"We are proud to partner in this work, and we are committed to making sure that when construction is complete, the businesses are still here, the neighbors still feel at home, and the corridor is stronger than it was before," said Joanna Bautch, executive director, Via Community Development Corporation.

The entire National Avenue project will be done in sections.

Again, this year is phase one from 39th to 27th.

Next year will be further east, from 11th to 1st St.

And 2028 will be the final, middle portion, from 27th to 11th St.

This is one of 60 traffic calming projects starting this year across the city.

For more information, click here.