Longer days and warmer weather are not only signs of spring. They also usher in construction season.

Traffic Investigations Lieutenant Tom Martin said he hopes motorists driving on Joint Base Lewis-McChord will stay abreast of ongoing construction projects.

"Construction projects are plentiful," Martin said.

Last week, sidewalk replacement began along Liggett Avenue and the streets from North Division to North 2nd Street, he said.

"West Way will be closed (until May 7) while they add a new right-turn lane," Martin said. "Pendleton Avenue underpass will be closed from May 10 to June 3 for a resurfacing project."

Also, Railroad Avenue will be resurfaced beginning June 3, he said.

Even now, drivers need to think about accessing the base with the construction in mind, Martin said.

The Madigan Gate barrier project, which begins Wednesday, means lanes will be restricted to two inbound lanes and one outbound lane except between 3 to 6 p.m., when there will be two outbound lanes and one inbound lane to help with the egress, he said. "Avoiding this area is highly recommended," Martin said. "Adjusting work hours, departure times and lunch breaks will help to keep the traffic moving."

Martin said that time is of the essence when it comes to completing these road projects.

The importance of these projects being done now is to try and get as many of them done before the bulk of the units return from deployment, he said.

"Also, stimulus money was given out and needs to be spent or lost," Martin said.

Safety leadership wants to hear from people who have concerns or other issues involving construction traffic, he said.

"Our department is always available to receive feedback from the community," Martin said. "Everyone must remember that construction is painful, but necessary to ensure the growth of the installation is managed properly."

Finding an alternate route may be a motorist's best bet, he said.

"Every motorist is encouraged to avoid work zones," Martin said. "Speeds will be reduced through construction zones and traffic laws will be strictly enforced by JBLM law enforcement personnel."