Things are still going smoothly with the detours caused by the closure of I-295 southbound from Gardiner to Topsham, according to the Maine Department of Transportation.

Traffic has been moving along on the designated alternate routes, Route 201 and I-95, throughout the week, according to DOT.

However, DOT offered this warning Friday afternoon:

Looking toward the first weekend of full closure, motorists should avoid traveling during peak travel times on Friday and Sunday evenings.

Commercial vehicles are discouraged from using Route 201 since it travels through residential neighborhoods and will have decreased speed limits. Motorists are reminded to use I-95/Maine Turnpike when traveling to Portland and points south, and Route 201 for Brunswick/Freeport traffic.

Starting Monday, there will be increased truck traffic on Summerhaven Road in Augusta as the contractor, Pike Industries, begins hauling asphalt to the I-295 site.

Pike will use I-95 to get to the construction area as opposed to traveling by local roads. This hauling will take place seven days a week for the next six weeks during daylight hours, though the schedule may change due to weather conditions.

Pike has been doing preparatory work since early May. Paving is expected to begin on Monday. The project is expected to last through August 30th and will rehabilitate 18 miles of the deteriorating concrete road.