POST FALLS - About 20 years in the making, construction of the long-awaited Greensferry overpass project in Post Falls will officially get started Tuesday.

The public is invited to a groundbreaking ceremony at 9:30 a.m. on the north side of Interstate 90 on Greensferry Road near Knudtsen Chevrolet.

Completion is slated for late summer or early fall next year.

"You'll probably be able to drive on it in September," said Tom Lien, executive director of the Post Falls Urban Renewal Agency, which is funding the $15 million project.

The overpass between the Highway 41 interchange and the Seltice Way overpass will feature two lanes in each direction, bicycle lanes and sidewalks on both sides.

"The project will improve connectivity, traffic mobility and emergency response between the business districts and residential areas north and south of the interstate," said Brad Marshall of JUB Engineers.

Utility work will start this fall and construction will progress throughout the winter and spring. Ralph L. Wadsworth Construction of Draper, Utah, is the general contractor for the project.

Post Falls Mayor Ron Jacobson and Post Falls Urban Renewal Agency Chairman Jerry Baltzell will speak at the groundbreaking ceremony. Representatives from the Idaho Transportation Department and Ralph L. Wadsworth will also participate.

Citizens with any questions or concerns regarding the project are urged to contact Marshall at 755-1862 or bmarshall@jub.com.