PenDOT is advising motorists that Elizabeth Avenue at the intersection with Route 65 (Ohio River Boulevard) in Avalon will be closed long-term.

Elizabeth will be closed between Route 65 and Howden Street. The closure will continue around-the-clock through Sept. 4. Signs will be posted to guide motorists.

Posted detours are: southbound Route 65 to Elizabeth Avenue, take Riverview Avenue to Jackman Avenue. Northbound Route 65 to Elizabeth Avenue, take Locust Street to Orchard Avenue to Jackman. From Elizabeth to Route 65, turn left onto Jackman and then right onto Riverview Avenue.

The closure is necessary as crews continue work on a $1.4 million improvement project on Route 65. The project includes widening the existing pavement from 40 feet to 52 feet, adding a turn lane for access to Elizabeth, milling, resurfacing, drainage, signal upgrades, guiderail, and other improvements on Route 65 from the Dilworth Run Bridge to approximately 530 feet south of Locust Street. Frank J. Zottola Construction Inc. of Valencia is the prime contractor for the project.

The overall project will be completed in late fall 2010.