Marshall Mayor Bob Byrnes called it a “generational project” for the city during the groundbreaking ceremony held in May.

During that same groundbreaking of the Highway 19/College Drive reconstruction project, U.S. Sen. Tina Smith recognized the road work would affect the heart of the city.

And she wasn’t kidding.

Heading into the heat of July, Highway 19 from the fairgrounds to Main Street, the old asphalt has been removed and the road is nothing but dirt and gravel. MnDOT officials have allowed Schwan’s and Ralco building workers to gain access to a major parking near the Ralco building. Otherwise, traffic is diverted away by road closure signs.

Unfortunately, businesses along this normally busy road are experiencing a major drop off in foot traffic. Of course, that would have to be expected with a road project of this magnitude.

And if you are already tired with all the inconvenience — it will only get worse.

The project will eventually proceed past Main Street up to Bruce Street. Sidewalk improvements will be made along the project area to improve accessibility. Also, the city of Marshall is replacing sanitary sewer and water main utilities.

A roundabout intersection will eventually be constructed at Country Club Drive and South Second Street.

Then there is the ongoing construction of the new aquatic center along West College Drive across from the Schwan’s building. The project recently caused a temporary street closure for part of Greeley Street. As the project advances, don’t be surprised for more such temporary road closures.

Then this week, motorists were thrown for another loop as road signs blocked Main Street just before the railroad crossing at Highway 68/59. Drivers will not be able to go through the railroad crossing while BNSF Railway replaces the train tracks. The Minnesota Department of Transportation said through traffic will be detoured onto Channel Parkway, Highway 19, 240th Avenue, and Highway 23.

According to MnDOT, the detour is expected to be in place until Aug. 1, depending on weather and other unforeseeable circumstances.

So no matter which way motorists turn in “the heart of the city,” there is a road closure sign.

As you maneuver through and around this mess, remember what Smith said at the groundbreaking ceremony in May.

“(The project) is going to make it smoother and safer, and just work better for everybody in the community.”

But we don’t blame motorists — as they rush to work or other destinations — for wondering about the logic by the powers to be to plan all these construction projects at the same time.

But as you wonder, we remind motorists to stay safe. Don’t let road closure frustration lead to costly mishaps.

Remember, the “generational project” will eventually be completed in the fall of 2026 and we will get to travel on new and improved roads.