Longview — Construction on a $3.5 million project to widen U.S. 80 between Texas 42 in White Oak and Fisher Road in Longview starts Monday.

Speed limits through the work zone will be reduced to 45 mph.

“It’s a project that’s long overdue,” said TxDOT spokesman Larry Krantz. “We’re thinking this project will make travel along that stretch safer and more efficient once it’s complete.”

Data from the Texas Department of Transportation show five deadly wrecks on that stretch of road during the past five years — many occurring when motorists were stopped to make a left turn.

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