The next phase of the state's $60 million plan to widen Fort Weaver Road is scheduled to begin tomorrow, according to the state Transportation Department.

DOT officials say motorists should expect single-lane closures in the southbound direction between Laulaunui Street and Old Fort Weaver Road as crews place temporary lane stripes and portable concrete barriers in the area.

That work should last through Friday.

Then, the following week, contractors will begin expanding the heavily congested roadway from four to six lanes by building an additional traffic lane in each direction from A'awa Drive to Geiger Road.

The construction is expected to be completed in mid-2009.

Phase I of the project, which was completed in August 2006, involved widening the road to six lanes between Farrington Highway and A'awa Drive.

The DOT is advising motorists to use caution while driving through the work area and to allow for extra travel time.