VIDALIA &045; It’s not unusual to construct a new look for summer &045; but in the case of U.S. 84, the goal is to get wider, not slimmer.

Crews from Blain Construction of Natchez are busy widening U.S. 84 in Vidalia from four lanes to five.

And construction, which started about two weeks ago should be finished in 60 days or less, Vidalia Mayor Hyram Copeland said.

The widening will extend from Vidalia High School to the Concordia Parish School Board office, which is located just outside the city limits.

&uot;It’ll relieve some of the traffic congestion we have there,&uot; Copeland said.

No accidents or complaints have been reported from construction.

State capital outlay money is being used to fund the project, whose total cost is about $80,000. Capital outlay funds, which are approved by the Louisiana Legislature, are using for construction or repairs or for equipment connected with a construction or improvement project.

The U.S. 84 project was proposed and approved two years ago by Rep. Bryant Hammett, D-Ferriday.

&uot;It’s just one of the grants we’re constantly pursuing,&uot; Copeland said.