Expressway driving on Rochester's westside downshifts into summer construction mode Tuesday.

Especially for those who commute to and from Greece and Gates using Interstate 390.

Beginning April 30, the next phase of the 390/490 project gets underway and will continue for the next four months.

Route 390 southbound between Lexington Avenue and Lyell Avenue will be reduced to two lanes, beginning Tuesday. It will also mark the temporary closing of the Lexington Avenue on-ramp to 390 southbound. Commuters will be directed to use Lee Road to Ridgeway Avenue as a detour, creating even more congestion to an already busy on-ramp.

On Friday May 3, Interstate 390 northbound will be reduced to two lanes. DOT crews will also guide northbound traffic on the southbound road of 390 South; putting all four lanes of the north-south expressway onto a single band. 

The DOT suggests Elmgrove Road and Mt. Read Boulevard southbound as possible alternatives to the morning commute and northbound during the afternoon drive.

Motorists should expect lengthy delays, especially during drive times, and to figure in extra time for any drive through the Rochester area's western expressway exchange.

For the latest on traffic happenings in and around Rochester, check out our interactive traffic map.