A traffic alert if your commute takes you through Cohoes: Construction is underway for safety improvements along Cohoes Boulevard.

Construction has begun, and it is a pretty large undertaking. You can expect some traffic headaches, but keep in mind this project is aimed to improve safety.

The multi-million-dollar project will create raised sidewalks and a tree-lined median, and add pedestrian signals. You can also expect the speed limit to be reduced from the current 40 mph.

There have been five pedestrian accidents in the area since 2000 -- three of them fatal. The hope is that adding the improvements, and reducing the crossing distance, will keep pedestrians safer.

This week, you can expect one of the northbound lanes to be closed. Construction is expected to be finished by the end of next year.