Highway motorists may experience some temporary inconvenience during the coming weeks and months as work crews add lanes of travel to a busy stretch of state Route 410 in Enumclaw.

The long-talked-about “channelization” project was launched last week. Work is expected to last until early December. Work on underground utilities is being tackled first.

The work area is between Mt. Villa Drive/Monroe Avenue and Griffin Avenue. Those who prefer landmarks will note the project area sits between the QFC and Safeway stores.

When completed, drivers will see a new five-lane configuration on SR 410 – two travel lanes in each direction with a continuous left-turn lane. As part of the project, there will be greater pedestrian access and new sideways and curb ramps that meet guidelines set by the Americans With Disabilities Act.

During construction, drivers will experience intersection closures, detours and lane restrictions. Among other things, there will be traffic slowdowns near the construction area and some parking restrictions.

The total price tag for the project is nearly $1.9 million. The bulk of the cost, almost $1.5 million, is being paid by a federal grant, with the remaining paid by the city. The city share is funded through real estate excise taxes and impact fees.